Asian World January 2024

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January 2024

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Issue 179

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IMRAN KHAN’S ECONOMIST ARTICLE BREAKS WORLD I RECORD

mran Khan, a cricket icon and former prime minister of Pakistan, made headlines with his piece in The Economist titled “Pakistan’s election could be a farce.”... ...continued on page 8

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January 2024

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WAHAJ ALI NAMED TOP PAKISTANI CELEBRITY OF 2023

FOOTBALL FOR PEACE SUPPORTED

BY SPARTA PRAGUE

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oventry University graduate fled the war in Ukraine with nothing more than a single bag, but never gave up on his dream to study psychology.

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he first UK maritime shipment of aid for Gaza has arrived in Egypt, carrying almost 90 tonnes of thermal blankets and other essential items....

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s 2024 arrives, the threat around cyber attacks, ransomware and hackers grows ever greater. Understanding the risks...

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EDITOR’S NOTE Hello readers and welcome back to the 154th edition of Asian World Newspaper! We hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe from the claws of the deadly pandemic, Covid-19. Ramadan 2021 is approaching soon and we understand that some of you may not be able to spend this holy month with your loved ones!

To cheer you up, we thought we should share some exciting news stories and something totally different to the usual covid-19 updates.

This month we focus on the protests that are happening in India and Bangladesh, turn to our global section to read the latest updates. We are also focusing on keeping a healthy lifestyle, especially as the lockdown has made some of us lazy! Turn to our health section to find out how you can keep a healthy lifestyle during lockdown. If you are somebody that loves watching movies on Amazon prime, then visit our glam section to see some of the new upcoming film releases. Also, don’t forget to look at our wrap edition by the wonderful Al Khair Foundation Charity, where you can see some of

the excellent work done by the charity itself. As you know the travel industry has faced many distributions due to the pandemic, why not read all about this in our travel section. Of course, this month we have provided some information on what to eat during Ramadan to ensure that we are looking after our health while we fast.

Whichever section you turn to, there is a story that is suitable for everyone, whether you are into sports, business, or you just like to read the news. So, pick up a copy of the West Midlands’s No.1 South Asian paper and make sure you leave no page unturned. Take a look at the rest of this issue NOW! And remember to stay safe and stay alert. For the latest and most exclusive advertisement offers for 2021, please don’t hesitate to Contact us on 0121 771 4545 or email: sales@asianworldnews. co.uk Have a great read!

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ENJOY THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS AT HIGHBURY LODGE! Churchill Retirement Living’s Highbury Lodge in Kings Heath is offering new Owners an exclusive Help to Buy offer with prices from £227,950, making the apartments both affordable and providing loved ones with complete peace of mind – the best of both worlds.

Help to Buy Retirement is a unique loanbased solution that helps over 65s begin the retirement they deserve. Purchasers retain 100% ownership of their apartment with a no negative equity guarantee. The scheme allows retirees to embark on an affordable retirement, whilst loved ones can be rest assured that they are in a safe place offering lifelong memories and friendships.

For those interested in Highbury Lodge, submit a website enquiry using the code CRL06 to be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a £250 Marks and Spencer gift card.

The Lodge is nestled just two minutes away from the bustling local high street, offering retirees a great opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of a lively community with plenty of amenities on the doorstep. Birmingham City Centre is also just 4 miles away, allowing retirees and visiting family to explore the many cultural and urban gems the second city has to offer.

The development is made up of 52 oneand two-bedroom apartments that feature beautifully fitted kitchens, round-theclock access to a support system and energy-efficient and economical heating.

Owners will also have use of a guest suite, where visiting friends and family

can stay. Not only that, Owners have access to an exclusive Owner’s Lounge, complete with coffee bar with stunning views out to a beautifully landscaped garden – the perfect place to spend a

peaceful afternoon relaxing or socialising. The Lodge benefits from a secure camera entry system and a Lodge Manager, who is available Monday to Friday offering Owners that a peace of mind.

Bernadette Hennelly, Regional Marketing Manager at Churchill Retirement Living Midlands, said: “This Help to Buy Retirement offer really does offer prospective Owners the best of both

worlds, getting to start an idyllic retirement at an affordable price, while reaping the benefits of friendship, security and companionship all at once.”

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January 2024

TREE-MENDOUS TREAT FOR CUB’S FIRST CHRISTMAS…

A SUMATRAN TIGER CUB AT WEST MIDLAND SAFARI PARK HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS BY BEING GIVEN HER VERY FIRST CHRISTMAS TREE

Five-month-old Lestari will be experiencing her first Christmas at the Park and will be spending it with her mum, Dourga and her keepers, who at this time of year are often using seasonal items as forms of enrichment, for the animals in their care.

This may be stockings full of hay for the rhinos, bauble pits for the meerkats, or in this case, offering the textures and scents of a small, tiger cub-sized Christmas tree, donated by the Park’s events team.

Head Keeper of Carnivores, Chris Hodgkins, said, “As it’s Lestari’s first Christmas, to make it extra special she was given a Christmas tree as enrichment. Enrichment is important for all our animals, as it gives them something to explore and encourages natural behaviours.

“Lestari loved the tree and it didn’t take her long to realise she could play with it, especially after her mum had pulled it out the ground! We loved watching her stalk and pounce on it, then drag it around her habitat. I think it’s safe to say she has been a good girl this year and will be getting a nice present from Santa! The keepers are thrilled to see how much she has grown and developed her own little personality!”

At this time of year, there are over 300 trees at the Park, being using as decorations for the Park’s Santa Safari and Safari Skating events.

In the new year, the trees will either be

donated as enrichment for the animals or recycled as part of a ‘treecycling’ campaign for the Park’s partnership with local charity, the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust.

Volunteers, including staff members from the Park, will be collecting used Christmas trees from people’s homes and dropping them at the Park where the trees will be chipped on site to be used as bedding for some of the animals.

Donations from the treecycling service will support children and their families in the area, fighting childhood cancer.

More information can be found here: www.gkcct.org/treecycle The Park will be open daily over the Christmas period until 7 January 2024, closing only for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Guests can see the animals on a winter safari, or on foot in the Park’s pedestrianised areas, including Lestari and Dourga in Tiger Tropics.

Safari Skating is also available until 7 January 2024 and is £8.50 if adding on to winter admission or a Santa ticket, or £13.50 for skating only, with children under the age of three being free.

Tickets can be booked in advance via the Park’s website, where guests can also see the calendar of events. Find out more on the Safari Park’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ WestMidSafari.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

5

ANTIQUES AND FINE ARTS FAIR CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL RETURN TO THE NEC BIRMINGHAM Dealers and customers alike were united in their praise for the organisers of a three-day Antiques and Fine Arts Fair at the NEC in Birmingham this month which marked the return of the popular event under a new team.

Classic Antique Fairs is the brainchild of Ceramics collector John Andrews of Scottow Antiques in Kent who turned his disappointment at the news there would be no such fairs in 2023 into action by running one himself.

Not only did his event attract some of the best and most respected names in the business to exhibit but it also inspired collectors and bargain hunters who turned up in droves, despite the threat of roadworks and rail strikes.

“I must admit it was pretty nerve-wracking running an event like this for the first time, but I had a strong support team and so many people who told me they were pleased we were doing it that I just pressed on,” said John.

“Seeing the pride the exhibitors took in their stands and the excitement on the faces of the visitors as they came in made it all worthwhile, plus of course some favourable trading taking place” added John who said the response had given

him the confidence to look into more dates and venues for next year.

One dealer, who was invited onto Sunday with Michael Portillo on GB News to promote the Fair, was Tom Smith of

Staffordshire based Dovecote Antiques.

He said the event had lived up to his expectations and there had been a great atmosphere.

Clocks and watches expert Richard Price

– a regular on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow – echoed Tom’s observations and said: “It really was wonderful to be back at the NEC at such a prestigious and well-organised event. Having a classic antiques

fair run by a dealer, for dealers, is something I am certainly delighted to support and it was pleasing to see so many visiting over the three days.”

Keith Ellis from Ellis Fine Art in Yorkshire was on trend, with the City’s cinemas showing the blockbuster Napoleon, having brought with him an exquisite pair of hall or library chairs designed by Georges Jacob who supplied furniture for the emperor’s residences. Keith said he had wanted to come back to the NEC for a long time.

Especially for the return to Birmingham, Levels Antiques from Somerset brought two rare Arts and Crafts brooches with connections to the City while Midlands based Andrew Muir brought an Arts and Crafts mantle clock by Jesson, Birkett & Co. of Birmingham. Andrew said the event had filled a void in the industry.

Attending their first major Fair as exhibitors, Matthew Coles and Brittany Heckford from Coles Antiques of Wells and Weston-super-Mare said they were delighted with their first experience of the event in such a prestigious venue and hoped to be back next year.

Visitors Frank and Joan Postlethwaite travelled from Southport to attend and said they had been coming to the Fairs at the NEC for years and were delighted to be able to do so again.

Dates for Fairs in 2024 will be announced shortly. To find out more, visit https:// www.classicantiquefairs.co.uk

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January 2024

NEW GREEN TRAVEL DISTRICT TO CREATE HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES

A pioneering new Green Travel District (GTD) for Sutton Walmley & Minworth, Reddicap and environs has been launched to help improve sustainable and active travel for residents, workers and visitors.

The initiative will help put people before cars ensuring that residents, workers and visitors have more opportunities to walk, wheel, cycle and take public transport.

Developed alongside the creation of the Peddimore employment park and the Langley Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE) which will bring thousands of new jobs and homes to the area, the district has been specially designed to ensure that both exemplar developments are well connected and sustainable.

Councillor Liz Clements, Cabinet Member for Transport at Birmingham City Council said: “I am so pleased we have worked closely with partners to set up a Green Travel District for this part of Sutton Coldfield, bringing everyone together to discuss transport issues and collaborate on opportunities to enhance sustainable travel across the area. This is exciting news for the entire region and will see investment in schemes and initiatives that

benefit all those living, working and travelling locally.”

The vision of the GTD is for less congestion, less pollution, fewer accidents, and healthier, safer, more productive communities.

The formation of a GTD will bring together key organisations, including Birmingham City Council, Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, Warwickshire County Council, IM Properties, the Langley Consortium and Transport for West Midlands to coordinate activity across the area and ensure the necessary

infrastructure, policies and supporting initiatives are in place.

Councillor Ken Wood, Ward Councillor for Sutton Walmley and Minworth, said “Whilst appreciating that, for many, there will always be a need to accommodate private vehicle use, this initiative will ensure residents, workers and visitors have viable alternatives and more opportunities to walk, wheel, cycle and take public transport.”

A huge amount of work has already been undertaken by IM Properties, the developer of Peddimore in and around the site

to enable people to walk, wheel or cycle for local journeys. This includes a new footbridge over the A38 and plans to improve connections to local rail stations and the canal towpath, including better signage.

To enable people to travel by public transport two new bus services have been launched to serve the Peddimore site.

The 67A service between Birmingham city centre and Peddimore provides a link from Erdington and Castle Vale and the 71A service between Royal Sutton Coldfield and Chelmsley Wood links with

Kingshurst and Castle Bromwich.

The first occupants of the Peddimore site, Amazon, have already created a travel plan detailing actions to promote sustainable travel to their staff and achieve the first level of accreditation with the national Modeshift STARS accreditation scheme.

David Smith, Director, Planning & Communities, IM Properties, development partner for Peddimore site, said: “Sustainable travel that prioritises walking, cycling and public transport is central to the Peddimore vision, connecting local people in Birmingham, Royal Sutton Coldfield and neighbouring North Warwickshire with new employment opportunities. We‘ve created a striking landscape setting that sensitively links with the surrounding area and provides attractive, safe, and accessible active travel routes. This contributes to an engaging and welcoming workplace, supporting the wellbeing of employees and visitors, while minimising impact on the environment.”.

Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council is also backing the Green Travel District approach, seeing the benefits it will bring to the Royal Town. Councillor Simon Ward, Leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said: “The Green Travel District clearly supports our active travel vision across the town where residents and visitors can leave the car at home if they wish and move safely and efficiently through our streets and spaces. Providing real green transport choices supports better health, economic and environmental outcomes and will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the rich heritage, biodiversity and natural beauty of our town.”

REFUGEE WHO ‘RAN FOR HIS LIFE’ WHEN THE UKRAINE WAR BROKE OUT CELEBRATES GRADUATING WITH A PSYCHOLOGY MASTERS FROM COVENTRY UNIVERSITY Coventry University graduate fled the war in Ukraine with nothing more than a single bag, but never gave up on his dream to study psychology.

Anuoluwapo Ojo, known as Anu, received his offer letter from Coventry University just two days before the war with Russia broke out which “shattered his whole world and meant he had to run for his life”.

He said: “I had only seen wars in movies.

I had only seen missile shots in movies, but I saw it with my own eyes. However, I am grateful that I was able to escape.

“I lived in the calm neighbourhood of Irpen, near Kyiv, and on February 24, 2022, I woke up to the sound of bombs at around 6am.The airport and train stations were closed, so the only way out was by car, heading for the Ukraine-Polish border.

“The roads were jammed as everyone was trying to escape and what should have taken ten hours turned into more than 24. Wethen had to leave the car and walk, finding our way through the fields and after a long and tough trip, we crossed into Poland.

“It then took three to four months travelling from Poland to Germany to Belgium, just trying to get refugee status and to get some sort of stability with my life because my investments, businesses, life, everything was null and void.”

Anu, who is originally from Nigeria, moved to Ukraine in 2010 to study medicine and surgery, and went on to qualify as a doctor in Ukraine where he worked and built a life for himself. After finishing

his first degree, Anu went for postgraduate specialist training in psychiatry working in a hospital for two years, training as a psychiatric doctor. It was during this time that he decided to explore the psychology part of the job and applied to Coventry University.

After settling as a war refugee in the Netherlands, Anu was able to defer his place at Coventry University and in the meantime took up part-time jobs to raise money to fulfil his dream.

“It took me a few months and I worked pretty hard, but I made sure that I didn’t give up hope,” he said.

“Having gone through the trauma of war, you just want some sort of respite. Imagine all the beauty of life upon the place that you have called home, all of your investments and businesses, everything gone? The house you lived in bombed. I literally left Ukraine with just a bag; no clothes, nothing.

“There were of course moments where I felt down, but I had a very good support system around me. I had my girlfriend who is now my fiancée and soon to be wife. And I had friends and family who would call and tell me not to worry and everything would be fine.”

At the same time as studying for his masters in psychology, Anu was also studying for hismedical licence so he could practice medicine in the UK. Anu didn’tdisclose his refugee status to the course team until after he had completed his degree.However, he did share his plans to continue his medical career in the UK and that he wasmanaging ex-

amsfor both the psychology course and his UK medical licence. Based on this,Dr Katherine Hall lecturer in psychology and Anu’s course director at Coventry University, choseAnu as the winner of the course’s Endeavour award.

She said: “Anu’s achievements over the past few years are remarkable in the face of extreme challenges. He was awarded the psychology prize for Endeavour based on his humble and optimistic outlook and dedication to academic success

in the face of adversity.

“I hope that Anu’s story can inspire other students to persevere and achieve their goals. I also hope it encourages other students to share their stories and seek support where needed if they do experience challenges.”

Anu, who recently graduated, added: “There’s no mountain too high, there’s no obstacle that can’t be overcome and so with my willpower, with my determination and the strong support system I had around me, I am here today as a masters graduate.”

He now plans to stay in the UK and use his degree to land a dream role.

Find out more about the Applied Psychology course at Coventry University.

About Coventry University Coventry University is a global, modern university with a mission of creating better futures. We were founded by entrepreneurs and industrialists in 1843 as the Coventry School of Design and we continue to work with businesses to ensure we provide job-ready graduates with the skills and creative thinking to improve their communities.

With a proud tradition of innovative teaching and learning, Coventry University is now one of the largest in the UK and has world-class campus facilities, the UK’s first standalone 5G network and a digital community of learning. Our students are part of a global network that has 50,000 learners studying Coventry University degrees in more than 40 different countries and partnerships with 150 higher education providers worldwide.

Over two centuries, we have flourished in our home city and Coventry University Group now also delivers access to our range of high-quality services and partnerships through bases in London, Scarborough, Belgium, Poland, Egypt, Dubai, Singapore and Africa. From September 2023, we will be teaching students at a new campus in China in a joint institution with Communication University of China.

We have greatly increased our research capacity and capability with a focus on impactful research, delivered for and with partners to address real-world challenges and support the sustainable growth of business and communities. The depth and breadth of our rapidly growing research portfolio was validated by the latest UK research assessment, which saw us jump 22 places in the research power rankings.

We were awarded a Gold rating in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework, proving we deliver excellence in what students care most about – teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies. In 2022, we were honoured with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade, the UK’s most prestigious business award. In recent years, we have won many awards and vastly improved our rankings in the league tables that matter to students – but what matters to us is delivering transformational change for our students, partners and communities around the world as we continue to evolve into a global education group.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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January 2024

IMRAN KHAN’S ECONOMIST ARTICLE BREAKS WORLD RECORD IMRAN KHAN, A CRICKET ICON AND FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF PAKISTAN, MADE HEADLINES WITH HIS PIECE IN THE ECONOMIST TITLED “PAKISTAN’S ELECTION COULD BE A FARCE.”

Front page story cont’d...

Since its publication on January 5, 2024, the article has gathered an unprecedented amount of views, with over 1.2 million people reading it in its first week of availability. This extraordinary level of interest demonstrates both the longevity of Khan’s popularity and the gravity of the issues he raised in his essay.

Khan highlights Pakistan’s current political and economic situation in his article. He berates the government for its policies, arguing that they have caused rising inflation, unemployment, and a widening gap in the employment rate. In addition, he voiced concerns about the decline of democratic institutions and the emergence of extremist religious beliefs.

Many Pakistanis who are fighting to make ends meet in the face of economic hardship have found resonance in Khan’s article. People who believe that the current system is failing them have responded favourably to his call for a “new social contract” that places a higher priority on social fairness and economic progress.

On the other hand, Khan’s detractors have accused him of utilising the article to achieve his own political agenda. They draw attention to the fact that he ruled for three years and took minimal action to solve the issues he now draws attention to. They also argue that, considering the military’s historically prominent and powerful position in Pakistani politics, his criticism of the military is misguided.

Undoubtedly, despite the criticism, Khan’s article has struck a chord with many. It has sparked important discussion about Pakistan’s future and the challenges the nation faces. Regardless of the merits of Khan’s suggestions, his article has been a wake-up call for Pakistanis and the international world at large. Reactions to Imran Khan’s article have been conflicting.

He has received criticism from some for disclosing issues. He has faced criticism from oth-Pakistan’s ers for exploiting the article to advance his own political agenda.

Whether Khan’s article will have any real impact on Pakistani politics or policy is still up for debate. Nonetheless, it has surely been successful in drawing attention to the difficulties the nation faces and inciting debate about potential solutions.

The article has highlighted Pakistan’s economy is in terrible shape, with high inflation, high unemployment, and a widening gap in employment opportunities. While the government’s actions have not only failed to address these issues but have actually made them worse.

Extremism in religion is on the rise, and democratic institutions are under attack.

Ultimately, Imran Khan’s article makes a significant addition to the discussion regarding Pakistan’s future. It has resonated with many Pakistanis and sparked a much-needed conversation about the issues facing the nation. Regardless of the merits of Khan’s proposals, his article has been a helpful wake-up call for Pakistanis and the international world at large.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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10

January 2024

PUTTING CHANGE INTO ACTION TO HELP THOSE ROUGH SLEEPING THIS WINTER The campaign has helped 750 people who are sleeping rough to help them move off the streets and into accommodation.

Generous public donations totalling more than £280,000 have helped provide much needed support and protection for those sleeping rough on the streets of the West Midlands as part of the year-round Change into Action alternative giving campaign.

This week sees the launch of the annual winter campaign to remind local people of the importance of helping to locate people experiencing homelessness so they can be connected to support services and helped to move off the streets and into accommodation.

To raise awareness about this year’s seasonal campaign, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), visited

the Frankfurt Christmas Market in Birmingham with Cllr Jayne Francis, Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for housing and homelessness, to hand out leaflets to stallholders, other local businesses and shoppers.

Festive shoppers and visitors to the popular market have the chance to make donations to Change into Action with a simple swipe of a bank card or smart phone.

Two contactless points set up by the Colmore Business Improvement District (BID) are located at 200 Degrees Coffee Shop on Colmore Row and at Snowhill Station.

Details of how to donate in other areas of the region, and how to help locate people rough sleeping can be found on the Change into Action website.

Cllr Jayne Francis, Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: “It can be difficult to determine how best to assist someone who may seem to be homeless. By donating

directly to Change into Action, you can be certain that your money will go directly to help someone who is sleeping rough.

“Every penny goes directly to trusted local charities and street outreach teams who know how best to use the money to help those in need. Over the years, thanks to the generosity of the Birmingham public, Change into Action has helped to improve the lives of hundreds of homeless people in the city.

“We know the cost-of-living crisis means that money is tight for many, but we appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) said: “At this time of year, our thoughts and prayers often turn to the circumstances of the less fortunate.

We know that conditions during the winter period present the greatest risks to the health of people who sleep rough and that is why we are working in close collaboration with

our local authority and wider partners to ensure that every effort is made to connect individuals with appropriate services to meet their needs and support them to move away from sleeping on the streets for good.

“Any rough sleeper is one too many, but in recent years we have made good progress in helping society’s most vulnerable – with the number of rough sleepers in the West Midlands now almost half what it was five years ago.

“Part of the reason this has been made possible is thanks to the generosity of citizens in this region, who have donated more than £280,000 to Change into Action since its launch. And this winter we are asking again that if people are in a position to do so then they continue supporting the campaign, so that together we can ensure there is a route off the streets for every single person who finds themselves there.”

Part of the work of the WMCA’s Homelessness Taskforce, Change

into Action is a regional alternative giving campaign, which encourages people to make an online donation rather than giving money to people asking for change on the streets.

It was launched as a pilot in Birmingham in 2017 and subsequently rolled out across Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, and Walsall, with Wolverhampton having a similar scheme called Alternative Giving CIO. All donations collected throughout the year personally benefit a person sleeping rough with trusted local charities and street teams working with individuals to identify those things that can really make a change to their personal circumstances The money raised so far in generous donations has supported around 750 individuals to move away from rough sleeping.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

11

T: 0121 771 4545 GLOBAL UK STEPS UP HUMANITARIAN AID COMMITMENTS TO GAZA

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THOUGHT-PROVOKING CHRISTMAS SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN ADVOCATING FOR PEACE AND REMEMBRANCE IN PALESTINE LAUNCHED

on the ground in Gaza, for example we will be providing coverage kits which are temporary shelters including plastic sheeting and blankets that are desperately needed in the harsh winter weather. The UK continues to reiterate the urgent need for more humanitarian pauses and sustained access for more aid and fuel to reach civilians in need.

Foreign Secretary David Cameron said:

“

The UK is committed to alleviating the suffering of people in Gaza. We have already trebled our aid commitment to Palestinians this year and the Prime Minister and I urged Israel at the highest levels to open Kerem Shalom in order to get significantly more aid into Gaza.

“

The Foreign Secretary will see first-hand the impact of UK aid on a visit to Al Arish, near the Egypt-Gaza border, as the UK calls for significant more aid to reach Gaza, through as many routes as possible.

David Cameron will meet with representatives from the Egyptian Red Crescent Society, who are coordinating the relief effort at the Rafah crossing, and hear how the UK’s contributions of shelter, blankets and other vital equipment has been providing much needed relief to the people of Gaza.

Together with international partners, the UK is increasing efforts to get greater humanitarian aid into Gaza. The UK will support United Nations World Food Programme to further enhance the new humanitarian land corridor from Jordan through Kerem Shalom.

The first direct World Food Programme aid convoy, made up of 46 trucks, travelled from Jordan to Gaza yesterday (20th December) carrying over 750 tonnes of food aid. A £2 million contribution from the UK will help to get further emergency food assistance to those who need it most.

We continue to urge Israel to increase the flow of aid into Gaza through Kerem Shalom and are exploring other routes to increase aid reaching Gaza, including maritime options.

We need to use as many routes as possible to achieve this goal. We have supported Jordan to deliver a new humanitarian land corridor from Jordan into Gaza and continue to call for significantly more aid to be allowed into Gaza through Kerem Shalom.

I am delighted to appoint Mark Bryson-Richardson as the UK’s Humanitarian Representative. He is a highly skilled diplomat official with extensive experience working in the region and will drive forward this vital work.

The UK is stepping up its commitment for greater humanitarian aid and fuel to reach civilians in Gaza by appointing Mark Bryson-Richardson as the Foreign Secretary’s Representative for Humanitarian Affairs in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Mark is a former UK Ambassador to Iraq and previously headed the Department for International Development’s Middle East and North Africa Directorate and the cross-Government Stabilisation Unit.

So far, the UK has announced it will spend almost £60 million in additional humanitarian funding in Gaza, trebling our existing annual budget to the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). UK aid will make a huge difference

The most recent package of £30 million funding, announced by the Foreign Secretary on his last visit to the region, has been allocated to trusted partners on the ground. This includes UNRWA, UNICEF, the OCHA Pooled Fund and the British Red Cross to support the Egyptian and Palestinian Red Crescent Societies, who are providing vital food, shelter and medical supplies.

This festive season, FNIK PR, a leading ethnic public relations agency, is proud to unveil a groundbreaking Christmas social media campaign aimed at sparking thoughtful conversations and promoting peace amidst the ongoing conflicts. Under the visionary guidance of Human Rights Barrister Yasin Patel and with creative designs by KH Designs, the campaign aims to shed light on the historical roots of Palestine while encouraging dialogue on the current plight of its people.

Titled “Merry Xmas: Remembering Palestine’s 4000-Year Heritage,” the campaign seeks to challenge conventional perspectives by emphasising that Jesus, a figure central to the Christmas celebration, was Palestinian.

Through a series of visually striking social media posts, FNIK PR intends to inspire reflection on the enduring history of Palestine, a region with a rich cultural heritage dating back over four millennia.

The carefully curated posts, adorned with festive imagery and the message “Merry Xmas,”

strive to draw attention to the deep-rooted existence of Palestine. Each post is designed to evoke empathy and understanding, urging viewers to contemplate the suffering and loss experienced by those in the current conflict.

Yasin Patel, a prominent Human Rights Barrister and key collaborator in the campaign, stated, “This Christmas, we aim to leverage the power of social media to initiate meaningful conversations about the historical context of Palestine and the urgent need for a ceasefire. By emphasising Jesus’ Palestinian heritage, we hope to encourage empathy and open dialogue that transcends cultural and political boundaries.”

The campaign encourages participants to share the posts across various social media platforms, fostering engagement and sparking conversations around the hashtag #RememberingPalestineXmas. FNIK PR anticipates that this initiative will contribute to the ongoing global dialogue on peace, justice, and the humanitarian crisis in the region.

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January 2024

FIRST UK MARITIME SHIPMENT OF LIFE SAVING AID FOR GAZA ARRIVES IN EGYPT

The first UK maritime shipment of aid for Gaza has arrived in Egypt, carrying almost 90 tonnes of thermal blankets and other essential items.

The lifesaving shipment was delivered from Cyprus by Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship Lyme Bay, carrying thermal blankets, shelter packs and medical supplies provided by the UK and the Republic of Cyprus. From Port Said, the aid will be received by the Egyptian Red Crescent and will make its way to Al Arish and then through Rafah and into Gaza for distribution by UNRWA. It follows a visit to Egypt from the Foreign Secretary to Al Arish last month (21 December) to meet with representatives from the Egyptian Red Crescent Society, who are coordinating the relief effort at the Rafah crossing, and the Defence Secretary’s visit to Cyprus and Israel on 7 December to push for accelerated aid deliveries into Gaza.

The Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary have made clear that Israel must increase the flow of aid into Gaza and facilitate the delivery of relief on the ground, including through negotiated humanitarian pauses. The UK will continue to explore other routes for aid deliveries, including the Cypriot initiative for a maritime corridor between Cyprus and Israel/OPTs and supporting United Nations World Food Programme through the humanitarian land corridor from Jordan through Kerem Shalom.

Foreign Secretary David Cameron said:

The UK is committed to supporting the people of Gaza. We have already trebled our aid commitment to Palestinians this year and today’s aid delivery – the first UK maritime shipment of aid for Gaza – via Port Said in Egypt contains almost 90 tonnes of vital supplies.

Significantly more aid needs to reach Gaza to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. The UK will continue to work with our partners in the region to open more aid routes into Gaza, including through the proposed maritime corridor between Cyprus and Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: I recently visited the region to find the best way to get aid into Gaza and support those in desperate need. Today’s maritime aid delivery, the first of its kind, is a significant milestone.

RFA Lyme Bay has docked in Egypt with almost 90 tonnes of aid bound for civilians in Gaza. This includes shelters for winter, medical supplies and thermal blankets – all pre-screened in Cyprus.

By testing new maritime routes, the UK is paving the way for other international donors to increase and accelerate aid deliveries.

The UK has so far announced it will spend almost £60 million in additional humanitarian funding in Gaza this financial year, trebling our existing annual budget to the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). The most recent

package of £30 million funding, announced by the Foreign Secretary on his last visit to the region, has been al-

located to trusted partners on the ground including UNRWA, UNICEF, WFP, the OCHA Pooled Fund and the British Red

Cross to support the Egyptian and Palestinian Red Crescent Societies.

UK AND SAUDI ARABIA EMPHASISE COMMITMENT TO MIDDLE EAST SECURITY

Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps hosted HRH Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister for Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in London. The counterparts discussed the importance of our joint defence activities to strengthen security in the Middle East, with continued building on industrial partnerships covering land and maritime, as well as our Future Combat Air partnership.

Houthi attacks, including the use of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial systems against global shipping, represent an increased threat to security in the Red Sea. The UK has demonstrated its commitment to support regional security and stability through the deployment of HMS Diamond to the Red Sea to protect key global shipping lanes. On Saturday

morning, HMS Diamond shot down a suspected attack drone which was targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea. Defence Secretary, Grant Shapps said: The UK has been, and will continue to be, a critical defence partner of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and we are jointly seeking to strengthen security in the Middle East.

It was a pleasure to host my counterpart, where we were steadfast in our commitment to protect the free flow of global trade, while also discussing progress on land, maritime and air programmes.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has the UK’s close support as it undertakes a Defence Transformation under its ‘Vision 2030’. The UK is continuing with our Defence Adviser Programme to Saudi Arabia for a further 3 years, demonstrating our commitment to strengthen cooperation on defence and security matters.

In order to address regional threats and challenges and ensure stability; Saudi Arabia and the UK will look to expand joint cooperation on multiple strategically significant capability areas that match our respective Defence capability plans.

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January 2024

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January 2024

NATION IN RUINS, CADILLAC, AI

JINNAH’S LEADERSHIP EXAMINED Nasim Yousaf

Since 1947, Pakistan has faced a tumultuous history marked by political upheavals, economic difficulties, corruption, and instability, with Muhammad Ali Jinnah serving as the inaugural Governor General. The nation was not given a sound foundation, and its challenges can be attributed to Jinnah’s lack of foresight, limited governance experience, dictatorial tendencies, and the suppression of opposition figures like Allama Mashriqi. Furthermore, Jinnah’s extravagant choices set a lasting precedent in the political landscape. Early communications between the newly appointed Pakistani Ambassador, Mirza Abol Hassan Ispahani, and Governor General Jinnah underscore a stark contrast between personal indulgences and the critical needs of the state.

The letters reveal Jinnah’s pursuit of a Cadillac super-limousine, a Lincoln, and a Beechcraft Model 34 airplane, indicating a disconnect with the nation’s crisis.

Ispahani wrote to Jinnah on September 19th, 1947: “My dear Quaid-e-Azam, I reached New York on the 11th and spent a day in Washington on the 13th…I met the top executives of General Motors Company who have taken prompt note

of your requirement of a Cadillac superlimousine. Their representative, who is in Bombay at present, will be visiting Karachi shortly, and will finalize the order after knowing your special requirements…I have not been able to see the Lincoln people yet. I hope to do so in the course of the next week. In regard to the special aeroplane, my friends and I have contacted some leading manufacturers in this country. I shall be in a position to report finally on the progress I have been able to make, positively by the end of next week. I hope to present my Credentials to the President of the United States some time next week and enclose, for your private information, a copy of the speech that I shall deliver at the time I present my credentials…”

Instead of urging the Ambassador to focus on the interests of the newly formed state, which was only about a month old, Jinnah was preoccupied with procuring luxury items even before the Ambassador presented his credentials. This reflects Jinnah’s desperation to obtain both vehicles and an aircraft.

In response to the Ambassador’s letter, on October 1, 1947, Jinnah replies: “…

Thank you so much for your letter of

September 19… I have noted that you say about the General Motor Company.

You have been good enough to try and get me a Cadillac car. When their representative comes to Karachi, I shall be very pleased to meet him, and will finalize the order after settling my requirements. Please convey my thanks to the Executive of General Motors Company for their agreement to do all they can and

even override all other prior bookings in order to let me have the car without delay. As regards the Lincoln, you will let me know when you are able to do so; and also with regard to the special aeroplane, I shall await your report… Yes, I am keeping well, but facing terrible, grave and dangerous issues and developments that are taking place from day to day, so rapidly and so dangerously…”

Jinnah acknowledges the alarming situation, but lavishness and Grandeur takes priority. Moreover, Jinnah wants the best and most luxurious car, evident from the Ambassador’s letter dated October 14, 1947, to Jinnah: “…The automobile ordered for you is the Super Cadillac 75, the last word in Cadillac limousines.

During the year 1947, only 41 cars of this model were assembled, yours being the

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IRCRAFT, AND LINCOLN IN VIEW: 41st and the last… I have already written to you about the aeroplane and shall be writing very shortly about your second car, the Lincoln.”

On October 22, 1947, Jinnah wrote to the Ambassador: “…With reference to your letter of the 14th, I do not mind the left-hand drive, but please try as to the color and get me the sample I have sent you, namely the picture of the Cadillac 60 Special. I note that you are pursuing your efforts about the aeroplane and Lincoln.”

On December 20, 1947, the Ambassador informed, “Your Cadillac has reached New York from Detroit, and will be placed on board a ship before the end of next week. I am sure you will like the automobile.” The ultimate luxury reached Karachi in early 1948.

Facing Pakistan’s financial crisis and a scarcity of parts and servicing facilities, the planned acquisition of aircraft and a Lincoln car had to be abandoned. Jinnah acknowledged this in a letter to the Ambassador, noting, “It is very kind of the Beechcraft Corporation to help us in every way, but although it may cost a quarter of a million dollars, the difficulty with these aircraft will be servicing.”

Despite the country grappling with severe crises—abductions, rapes, killings, mass migration, and economic instability, hindering even basic purchases like paper and pencils—Jinnah’s prioritiza-

tion of personal comfort amidst widespread suffering was lamentable. In light of the nation’s dire situation, he should have demonstrated modesty and avoided practices akin to those of the Viceroy of India.

Jinnah’s opulent lifestyle, devoid of personal sacrifice, inspired a societal pursuit of wealth among politicians and the public. This emulation resulted in corruption, a lack of national dedication, and high-end vehicles like BMWs symbolizing political elites, rendering progress assurances hollow.

Since its inception, Pakistan’s persistent adherence to British-style administration, including the use of Private Secretaries and Personal Assistants, despite financial constraints, sets a troubling precedent. The British approach prioritized authority over cultivating public servants dedicated to addressing people’s needs. This practice should cease, promoting a culture of self-help.

As a leader, Jinnah could have made a significant impact by adopting a simpler lifestyle and promoting self-reliance.

Embracing humbleness and emphasizing values of simplicity and self-help could have inspired people throughout the community. Leaders serve as role models, and if Jinnah had chosen humility, the nation would have prioritized integrity and honesty over materialism, fostering a more ethical society.

The portrayal of Jinnah in Pakistani history often idealizes him, elevating him to an uncriticizable status. This narrative involves the distortion and fabrication of facts, glossing over his flaws and unethical political maneuvers. Even not wearing the same suit twice is presented as a remarkable achievement Even not wearing the same suit twice is presented as a remarkable achievement. Despite the common belief that Jinnah’s impact on Pakistan was limited due to his untimely death, he had a significant period, from 1940 when the Pakistan Resolution was adopted until his passing in 1948, to shape the nation’s vision and constitution. I have emphasized, and many now agree, that the creation of Pakistan, from the Two-Nation Theory to the partition of India, was orchestrated by British rulers. If Jinnah were powerful enough to create Pakistan, he would not have allowed the partition of Punjab and Bengal. In my published works, such as the documentary “The Road to Freedom: Allama Mashriqi’s Historic Journey from Amritsar to Lahore,” and the article “The British Chessboard: Jinnah, Gandhi, and the Strategic Divide of India,” I have delved into unknown aspects of Jinnah’s (and Gandhi’s) politics.

Pakistan urgently requires a selfless figure akin to Allama Mashriqi, an exceptionally educated and unmatched personality in the world. Unlike lead-

ers such as Jinnah, Mashriqi chose unpretentiousness over personal comfort, owning only a couple of Khaki Shalwar and Pyjama sets, repeated after selfwashing. Despite his status as a worldfamous mathematician and with plenty of Khaksars at his disposal, he personally handled tasks like typing letters and cleaning his office, which was in a tent.

Mashriqi’s commitment to a modest lifestyle reflected his values and dedication to uplifting the nation. In today’s ostentatious realm of power, Mashriqi’s example gains relevance. A figure prioritizing people’s welfare over personal luxuries is vital for Pakistan’s future marked by equality, justice, and genuine progress.

As someone influencing millions, he inspired people to adopt simplicity as a way of life.

To sum up, the ambassador and Jinnah’s letters serve as poignant reminders that reversing the challenging conditions in the nation requires a departure from opulence and a demand for leadership accountability. Ceasing dependence on loans and charity is crucial to prevent the country’s tarnished global reputation. Amidst the challenges and stark social and financial disparities, a critical examination of Jinnah’s legacy is imperative. The populace must insist that politicians, men in power across sectors, embrace simplicity or relinquish governance responsibilities. Not only those in

authority but also citizens must, for the love of their homeland, forsake extravagance and exhibit empathy. Expressions of patriotism ring hollow without selfsacrifice and concrete actions for its betterment. This shift can combat corruption and address the correlation between a lavish lifestyle and increased fraudulent practices. Advocating for humility, altruism, and aligning with Mashriqi’s virtues becomes vital in fostering a culture defined by integrity and answerability, especially in the face of the overall pathetic situation in the land.

Scholar Nasim Yousaf, a grandson of Allama Mashriqi, has authored 18 books and digitized 19 rare works, including Mashriqi’s historic journal “Al-Islah.”

His global impact is evident, with “88,097 papers on Academia discussing the Khaksar Movement” and readers from at least 60 countries. His online works consistently attract a substantial audience, exemplified by noteworthy engagement, including 101,764 visitors recorded on a Facebook fan page and activity across various platforms.

Copyright © 2023 Nasim Yousaf

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January 2024

BUSINESS

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UK EXPORT FINANCE BACKS SIX FLAGS QIDDIYA CITY DEAL IN WIN FOR UK BUSINESSES

OVER 200,000 BUSINESSES SET TO GET FREE ADVICE SETTLING ENERGY SUPPLIER DISPUTES Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability Amanda Solloway said:

“

This government has always stood by businesses, and we want to ensure they are getting proper support and service in dealing with energy suppliers.

That’s why we’re proposing expanding the reach of the Energy Ombudsman to cover an extra 200,000 businesses, allowing them to access free, impartial advice and resolve issues with their supplier without the need for an expensive trip to court.

“

More than 200,000 businesses could for the first time get access to specialist support for disputes with their energy supplier, under plans announced.

Under new proposals, companies with up to 50 employees would qualify for support from the Energy Ombudsman – with issues ranging from disputes over bills and energy supply, to how an energy product or service has been sold, or wider customer service issues.

Currently, this support is only available to businesses of up to 10 employees, and households.

Making this move will enable these companies to settle disputes with their energy supplier without facing costly court fees – ultimately saving them money.

It follows a survey conducted by regulator Ofgem, which found that 94% of the total respondents, which included businesses organisations, consumer groups, and suppliers, said they would welcome

this move.

See the consultation on a New threshold for businesses accessing

the Energy Ombudsman which is open until Wednesday 31 January 2024.

UKEF has guaranteed an Islamic Murabaha financing facility for c.$700 million signed by Qiddiya Investment Company to finance the construction of the Six Flags Qiddiya City theme park. This is being undertaken by a joint venture led by Bouygues Bâtiment International and Almabani General Contractors.

This is UKEF’s largest Murabaha financing to-date and first in the region, a move which helps UK exporters gain wider access to the opportunities being created by PIF’s investment in large-scale infrastructure development.

UKEF was supported by reinsurance from the Dutch ECA Atradius Dutch State Business N.V., the Italian ECA SACE S.p.A., and the German ECA Euler-Hermes Aktiengesellschaft.

Crédit Agricole CIB acted as exclusive ECA Coordinating Bank, Structuring and Documentation Bank and Investment Agent, and, together with a syndicate of banks comprising HSBC and BNP Paribas, as Mandated Lead Arranger (MLA).

UK Export Finance Chief Executive, Tim Reid said:

Saudi Arabia’s ‘Vision 2030’ is hugely ambitious, and UKEF is determined to ensure that British businesses can benefit from the enormous exporting opportunities it offers.

This new landmark deal not only creates exciting business for UK suppliers, but demonstrates UKEF’s ability to unlock new sources of commercial finance to make transformative projects possible around the globe.

Oliver Christian, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan, added: UK-Saudi Arabia bilateral trade stood at over £17bn last year, and our trading relationship goes from strength to strength. This is clearly demonstrated by today’s announcement that UK Export Finance has secured another strategic win by supporting this recordbreaking Islamic financing deal – its largest ever Murabaha. This transaction will help UK exporters access even more of the valuable trading opportunities being created by Saudi investment in infrastructure and socio-economic transformation.

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January 2024

BE MORE HACKER-SAVVY IN 2024

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By Paul Day, technical director of specialist document management company Filestream. Paul is an expert in GDPR and supports his document management clients around cyber-security and keeping their data safe. Filestream works with companies including Anglia Farmers, University of Hull, Kingsley Health Care, Carnival UK, Scania and BNP Paribas.

As 2024 arrives, the threat around cyber attacks, ransomware and hackers grows ever greater. Understanding the risks and legal responsibilities around personal data will become even more important.

It is predicted that there will be increasing threats in 2024 around the increased use of AI by criminals – and also the increased use of AI to defend against criminal attacks.

It is believed that ransomware attacks will become more prevalent in the SME sector, moving away from larger corporates and that hackers will go for weak links in supply chains to cause havoc. There is also worry in the world of IT globally about skills shortages and recruitment of talent to keep ahead of the criminal curve.

Here are just some thoughts around the reality of the situation we now face in our ever-connected world. As AI and technology advances – so do the criminals who wish to exploit it.

Can hackers still sell your data?

Billions of ‘pieces’ of personal information is stolen every year because of data breaches. Hackers bundle personal information with other stolen data and sell it en masse to other criminals on the dark web.

A social security number may sell for as little as 78p. Credit card, debit card and banking info can go for as much as £86. Usernames and passwords for non-financial institution logins are around 78p, but it can range from £15 to £156 for login info for online payment platforms.

How might that data be used?

Just two examples are: identity theft – a victim’s personal information can be

used to gain benefits for a criminal at the expense of a victim. This might include taking out credit cards and/or loans in their victims’ names and another is account takeover.

Here criminals steal login credentials to break into accounts that store payment details such as shopping accounts. They then change the password so that the victim cannot get into the account and then they shop at a victim’s expense.

Then there are the big hack attacks such as the MoveIt attack earlier in the year which hit many big companies.

The impact of this one attack is still coming to light.

Is phishing still a thing?

The answer is yes. A phishing scam occurs when a victim is tricked into handing over data and some are extremely sophisticated now. It can be done over the phone, via a social media message or emails. Increasingly these can appear legitimate as they are from known contacts or via platforms a victim uses regularly.

According to a recent consumer study

by Nat West, 37 per cent of scams in the year to 23 October were phishing scams. The bank’s fraud team interviewed 2,000 people to gather the data.

Phishing scams came top followed by friend and family scams (urgent texts or messages asking for money in an emergency posing as a family member) and the third is get-rich-quick scams,

usually offering a wonderful (but phoney) investment opportunity.

What are the penalties for companies and organisations which suffer a data breach?

In the UK they can be large – though the enforcement body The Office of the Information Commissioner or ICO – does prefer to work with an organisation to resolve issues if possible.

It can enforce various penalties including assessment notices, warnings, reprimands and it can issue fines of up to £17.5 million or four per cent of annual world wide turnover – whichever is the higher.

Recent reprimands for disclosing people’s information inappropriately were issued to organisations including University Hospitals Dorset Foundation NHS Trust, Ministry of Justice and Thames Valley Police (between April and June 2023).

In recent years some of the biggest fines have been: • British Airways – £20 million • Marriott Hotels – £18.4 million • TikTok – £12.7 million • Clearview AI – £7.5 million • Ticketmaster – £1.5 million How can a company avoid this?

Being cyber aware, knowing the requirements of GDPR, working with trusted IT providers with good knowledge around these matters to minimise and mitigate an ever-increasing risk.

This is an ever-evolving landscape and the key is to work oin an ongoing way with a trusted partner. Strong management of online data and ‘paperwork’ is needed and often free services are not as secure as business owners ‘hope’ they are.`

MORE THAN HALF A BILLION POUNDS IN CONNECTIVITY INVESTMENT THIS YEAR TO BENEFIT MORE THAN 330,000 HOMES AND BUSINESSES Hundreds of thousands of people across the country will benefit from lightningfast broadband speeds, thanks to more than half a billion pounds’ worth in funding from the UK government over the course of this year.

Over 17,000 homes and businesses across rural Derbyshire are the latest set to be connected to the fastest broadband speeds on the market, backed by £33 million in new government investment announced – with spades expected in the ground by next summer.

They join homes and businesses across Shropshire, Cambridgeshire, New Forest, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampshire, North East Staffordshire and Oxfordshire who have been awarded contracts this year to upgrade their broadband – totalling over £530 million invested to benefit over 330,000 properties.

This announcement comes as Building Digital UK (BDUK) issues its latest progress update today, showing the total number of homes and businesses that already have access to fast and re-

liable gigabit broadband thanks to UK government investment now stands at 929,700.

Gigabit broadband speeds mean households can download a high-definition film in under one minute, stream and download entertainment and shop online across several different devices at once. This will save families from battling over bandwidth, nipping any family arguments in the bud when parents want to tune into It’s a Wonderful Life or the King’s Christmas broadcast, while children want to see Kevin McCallister tangle with would-be burglars at the same time. This new connectivity will also help boost online efficiency and productivity for businesses to pave the way for new opportunities and further economic growth.

Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Michelle Donelan said: Working hand in glove with industry, the success of our high-speed broadband rollout means more homes have

faster, clearer connectivity than ever before.

Whether they are streaming classic Christmas movies or video calling loved ones across the world, this year thousands more families will not have to face feuds over festive films or frustrating buffering, leaving more time to spend enjoying the company of their

nearest and dearest.

Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, Sir John Whittingdale, said: The progress of Project Gigabit this year has seen us take significant strides in delivering modern connectivity throughout the UK. As we approach Christmas, I hope the

ability to obtain gigabit broadband speeds will bring joy to households, and will continue to deliver new opportunities for generations to come.

Our commitment to advancing digital infrastructure highlights our dedication to creating a connected and thriving future for all.

In the meantime, thousands of homes and businesses are already benefiting from an upgraded gigabit connection.

Local residents living in hard-to-reach communities in places such as Staveley in Cumbria, Barnard Castle in Teesdale and Bishop’s Caundle in North Dorset were among the first to get connected this year through the government’s contracts with suppliers in these regions.

The current rollout progress in the UK stands at 79%, and the government is continuing to work at pace with broadband suppliers to achieve 85% coverage by 2025, and then nationwide by 2030.

DHUNKI MAKES A MASTERPIECE ENTRY ON CHRISTMAS

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WAHAJ ALI NAMED TOP PAKISTANI CELEBRITY OF 2023 PAGE 20

EZU AND B YOUNG REVIVE A BOLLYWOOD CLASSIC FOR ‘ANJANI X’ PAGE 22

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SHAH RUKH KHAN AND RAJKUMAR HIRANI DELIVER A CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE AHEAD OF CHRISTMAS

January 2024

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In the rustic backdrop of Punjab, “DUNKI” unfolds the tale of four friends bound by a shared dream of reaching England. The challenge? No visa, no ticket. A soldier emerges as their ticket to the land of dreams, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming saga. Boasting an exceptional ensemble cast, including Boman Irani, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, Vikram Kochhar, Anil Grover, and the iconic Shah Rukh Khan, the film promises an emotional rollercoaster drawn from real-life experiences.

This collaborative venture between Shah Rukh Khan and Rajkumar Hirani transcends borders, reviving the sweetness and nostalgia of cinema, resonating with universal themes of dreams, love, and friendship. “DUNKI” is more than a film; it’s an immersive experience that takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of friendship, love, and the pursuit of dreams.

Complementing the captivating narrative, the music of “DUNKI” is a harmonious blend of emotions, love, and nostalgia. Arijit Singh and Pritam skillfully encapsulate the love-filled journey of Manu and Hardy, with tracks like “Lutt Putt Gaya” setting the romantic stage.

Sonu Nigam’s soul-stirring vocals in “Nikle The Kabhi Hum Ghar Se” resonate with the film’s theme of yearning for one’s homeland. “O Maahi” captures the power of selfless love, and Diljit Dosanjh adds a vibrant touch with “Banda,” introducing Shah Rukh Khan’s character. Following the huge box office success of Pathaan and Jawan, anticipation for Shah Rukh Khan’s forthcoming film is at an alltime high.

The UK is currently in the midst of a DUNKI takeover in the shape of an outlay of outdoor media activations promoting the film in locations around the country as well as branded trucks moving through local communities displaying clips from the film on digital screens. Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan has been actively promoting the film in Dubai for the #DUNKIDUBAITAKEOVER where he was recently spotted dancing to the tunes of “O Maahi” from DUNKI on the Global Village Stage to thousands of adoring fans. Shah Rukh Khan set the stage ablaze with his moves, concluding the performance with his signature romantic pose—a heartwarming gesture that resonated with his die hard fan base.

Produced by Rajkumar Hirani and Gauri Khan, “DUNKI” is a presentation of JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment, and Rajkumar Hirani Films. The screenplay, crafted

by Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, and Kanika Dhillon, is set to be promising an immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience.

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January 2024

WAHAJ ALI NAMED TOP PAKISTANI CELEBRITY OF 2023

Wahaj Ali has been named as the number one Pakistani star for 2023. He ranked nine in the globally popular Top 50 Asian Celebrities In The World list, which is published by UK based Eastern Eye newspaper. The only one from his country to make the top 10, The hardworking actor ranked ahead of global celebrities, including from Hollywood, Bollywood, the music industry, television, literature, and social media, for work he has done across the year. Popular Pakistani star Wahaj said: “Even though it’s nice to be recognised, my main focus continues to be giving my best every time for my fans. I am grateful to all the great people I have worked with, the amazing audience and my fans, who have given me so much support and humbled me with their unconditional love. I am looking forward to working even harder and crossing more creative horizons.”

The top 50 list celebrating Asian stars who shone the brightest in 2023, is based on brilliant work, positive impact, breaking boundaries, shattering glass ceilings, fan attention, and being inspiring in some way. There was also a big public input with readers and social media users nominating their favourite.

Eastern Eye entertainment editor Asjad Nazir, who puts together the list revealed that Wahaj was the biggest surprise package of 2023 and represented his country

admirably with great work. “Wahaj Ali showed that he is one of this generation’s finest Pakistani actors with strong performances throughout the year, including in record-breaking drama serial Tere Bin, which delighted audiences in diverse countries around the world. The top television star of 2023 impressed everyone with his talent and had one of this year’s fastest growing fan bases. He has laid the foundation for fantastic work in the future,” explained Asjad Nazir.

Shah Rukh Khan added to a year of stunning achievements by topping the Top 50 Asian Celebrities In The World list for 2023. His blockbuster hits Pathaan and Jawan, and a guaranteed third success with red hot release Dunki reignited a floundering Hindi cinema industry and reclaimed his crown as the king of Bollywood. Asjad Nazir explained why the 58-year-old actor made such a big impact. “By the time 2023 ends, the king Khan will become the first leading man from the modern era to have three huge Bollywood blockbuster hits in a calendar year. By drawing big audiences back into cinema halls with global juggernauts, the actor gave a movie industry that has been in deep decline a much needed boost and had a transformative effect. The historymaking superstar eclipsed everyone else with his brilliance and reminded global audiences what

escapist Bollywood cinema is capable of.”Alia Bhatt came in second for work in Indian cinema, Hollywood, business and being a strong role model for working mothers. Third placed Priyanka Chopra-Jonas was once again the most famous Indian on the planet and carried on breaking ground internationally, including with big budget series Citadel, Hollywood film Love Again, humanitarian work and lighting up the red carpet at international events.

Fourth placed Diljit Dosanjh confirmed himself as the biggest Punjabi star on the planet with stunning work as an actor and singer, which included cinema, major crossover international music collaborations and a path-breaking performance at the Coachella festival.

Fifth placed Charli XCX from UK remained the biggest singing star internationally with a South Asian heritage and did everything from super single releases to blockbuster live performances globally. Sixth place Ranbir Kapoor delivered the year’s most impactful movie performance with blockbuster hit Animal.

Seventh placed Shreya Ghoshal had another award-winning year that included magnificent songs in multiple languages, global arena shows and judging Indian Idol. Eighth placed Vijay was the biggest South Indian cinema star of 2023 with two hits.

Canadian actress Iman Vellani is number 10 for headlining Hollywood blockbuster The Marvels with a path-breaking role. Other Pakistani origin stars who made Top 50 Asian Celebrities In The

World list include Riz Ahmed (11), Sajal Ali (17), Arooj Aftab (24), Yumna Zaidi (32), Shazad Latif (37), Hadiqa Kiani (38), Ahad Raza Mir (42), Mawaan Rizwan (45) and Bilal Abbas Khan (48).

The oldest star in the list is 81-year-old Amitabh Bachchan (35) and the youngest is 20-year-old actress Sumbul Touqeer (44), who said: “Being included in the annual list with so many distinguished international names feels great. I am also proud to be the youngest in this list again and hope to inspire others starting out on their journey that anything is possible. I am grateful to be able to do what I love and so thankful for all the support.”

The highest placed Indian television star is Tejasswi Prakash (12). The highest placed comedian is Emmy Award winner Vir Das (28) and the only author to make the list is British writer Chetna Maroo (47), whose debut novel Western Lane received a Booker Prize nomination. The only social media star to make the list is Simran Balar Jain (49) for her taboobusting and boundary breaking content creation.

Others in the 2023 list include Arijit Singh (13), Sunny Deol (16), Deepika Padukone (19), Anil Kapoor (22), Dev Patel (27), Simone Ashley (29), Zakir Khan (34), Armaan Malik (36), Geraldine Viswanathan (39), AP Dhillon (40), Anoushka Shankar (41) and Ahir Shah (46).

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GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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January 2024

EZU AND B YOUNG REVIVE A BOLLYWOOD CLASSIC ON THEIR NEW COLLABORATION ‘ANJANI X’ International music sensations Ezu and B Young have joined forces to deliver an electrifying new track, ‘Anjani X’ set to captivate audiences with its dynamic fusion of Punjabi verses and international R&B vibes. The single features a sample from the iconic ‘Ladki Badi Anjaani Hai’ from the Bollywood classic, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, adding a nostalgic touch to the contemporary sound.

‘Anjani X’ showcases the best of both worlds as Ezu brings his fresh Punjabi verses to the table, seamlessly interwoven with B Young’s distinctive international R&B style. The collaboration effortlessly blends English and Punjabi lyrics, accompanied by a catchy beat, solidifying its position in the current music market. ‘Anjani X’ is poised to be a chart-topping hit, promising to dominate airwaves and playlists worldwide.

Accompanying the release is a visually stunning music video that perfectly complements the song’s vibrant energy.

Filmed with a keen artistic eye, the video features Ezu and B Young performing in their signature styles, accompanied by Bollywood-inspired dancers showcasing their mesmerising moves.

Ezu and B Young’s collaboration is a testament to their ability to bridge musical genres and cultural influences, creating a universally appealing sound that transcends boundaries.

‘Anjani X‘ is now available on all major streaming platforms.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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January 2024

HEALTH

• Mental Health Minister lauds former professional boxer’s efforts to help those with mental ill health stay in work via programme of controlled non-contact boxing classes • Visit comes as government unveils unprecedented £795 million of additional funding to support thousands of people struggling with mental health back into work over next 5 years • Government is dedicated to boosting nation’s mental health and helping people nationwide to stay healthy, get off benefits and move into work Pioneering efforts by the former World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Frank Bruno, who is helping people with mental ill health back into work, have been welcomed by Health Minister Maria Caulfield during a visit to the Frank Bruno Foundation in Northampton.

It follows the government unveiling an unprecedented £795 million of additional funding so thousands of people can be helped back into work over the next 5 years, keeping them out of poverty, improving their wellbeing and raising their living standards.

Funding will expand NHS Talking Therapies, so an additional 384,000 people will benefit from courses of treatment over the next 5 years and increasing the number of sessions available.

The former professional boxer has spoken openly about how exercise has played a vital role in his battle with mental health challenges. He set up the Frank Bruno Foundation in 2017, offering wellbeing programmes and structured non-contact boxing sessions for anyone over the age of 10 years who is experiencing problems with mental ill health.

A stay in work scheme is central to the foundation’s work – aimed at helping professionals with mental health difficulties stay in work and prevent long-term sickness. And an innovative wrap-around service helps professionals deal with other contributing struggles such as housing, money worries, addiction, family difficulties and bereavement.

Mental Health Minister, Maria Caulfield, said: Frank and his team are doing a great job at getting people fighting fit through boxing classes, using innovative techniques to support local people with their mental health and wellbeing. In particular, it’s great to see his brilliant ‘stay in work’ scheme.

This government is determined to help as many people as possible stay healthy, get off benefits, and move into work. That’s why we’ve just unveiled £795 million of new funding to provide more mental health treatments nationwide and help those with mental health conditions stay in or find work.

Former professional boxer, Frank Bruno, said: I am honoured that the Frank Bruno Foundation received a visit from Maria Caulfield. We are providing a unique service to the mental health community in Northamptonshire and it is having a really positive impact.

The minister was really interested in our work and I was keen to hear how the government is looking to improve the future of mental health care.

I was delighted the minister got into the boxing ring with me and pledged to continue the fight against mental health

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MINISTER VISITS FRANK BRUNO FOUNDATION MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

challenges. If there was somewhere like this foundation available when I was ill

it could have really helped, so we need to see more services like this made avail-

able.

Mum of one, Jo, from Northampton, who has bipolar disorder, said: This place is like a family and has really helped me. I came to the foundation because I suffer from bipolar and coming here has really helped with my confidence and self-esteem. I have used the coping mechanisms I have learned here to help me in my life.

Deni first came to the foundation in May 2021 and is now a full-time member of staff who works as a mental health development officer.

Deni from Northampton, who suffered crippling anxiety attacks and struggled to leave his home, said: I was really lucky to come here and enrol in programmes – and I now love helping other people. This is a safe place that tests your boundaries but where you also feel

comfortable.

With its additional funding, the government is boosting 4 key programmes – NHS Talking Therapies, Individual Placement and Support, Restart and Universal Support – to benefit up to 1.1 million people over the next 5 years and help those with mental or physical health conditions stay in or find work.

NHS Talking Therapies provides evidence-based psychological therapies, including cognitive behavioural therapy, for treatment of mild and moderate mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.

The additional £795 million investment will also fund an additional 100,000 Individual Placement and Support places over 5 years, which will help people with severe mental illness gain and retain paid employment.

DIGITAL PATHOLOGY TO IMPROVE CANCER SCREENING AND SAVE LIVES Screening for breast, bowel and cervical cancer will be made quicker and more effective under plans to roll out the use of digital images to detect cancer.

The Department of Health and Social Care is taking forward the recommendation of the UK National Screening Committee to increase the use of digital pathology to examine body tissue samples as part of screening programmes.

This will help: • Clinicians to gain second opinions on whether samples obtained are cancerous.

• Laboratories to work more efficiently and quickly, including allowing reporting off site.

• Make it easier to identify cancer.

• Speed up diagnosis for patients.

The announcement comes after the NHS expanded the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme earlier this month, sending out hundreds of thousands of testing kits for people to use at home to detect cancer at an earlier stage.

The government has also opened 141 community diagnostic centres delivering more than five million additional scans, including for cancer, and earlier this year invested a further £10 million for 28 new breast screening units and over 60 life-saving upgrades to services in the areas where they are most needed.

Health Minister, Andrew Stephenson, said: We know the earlier cancer is detected the sooner it can be treated, and the greater the chances of survival and recovery.

Cancer is already being diagnosed at an earlier stage, more often and the

NHS is seeing and treating record numbers of cancer patients.

Increased use of digital pathology will help the NHS to go further and faster and provide another weapon in our battle against cancer.

In 2020, the UK National Screening Committee was asked by the National Coordinating Committee for Breast Pathology and by the Royal College of Pathologists to consider the evidence regarding the use of whole slide imaging.

This is a technique which allows slides to be reviewed digitally on a computer screen, rather than with a microscope. The technology enables an image of the entire glass slide to be created in high resolution which can then be stored and viewed on a computer screen or mobile device and saved for later review.

A trial then assessed whether using digital microscopy was as effective as using microscopes and slides for screening samples and with results

confirming it was, the committee agreed it’s a safe option to complement or replace light microscopy.

Chair of the UK National Screening Committee, Professor Sir Mike Richards, said: We need a high level of evidence when it comes to screening programmes so, alongside the National institute for Health and Care Research, we sponsored vital research to assess the effectiveness of this technique.

Following that research, I’m pleased that the UK National Screening Committee’s recommendation to allow the use of digital pathology has been approved. Its use will support flexibility for pathologists and make sharing samples for second opinions or quality assurance easier and more efficient.

Some areas of the NHS have been early adopters of digital pathology but the recommendation published today, and accepted by the government, will allow the rollout across the NHS. NHS England is expected to follow by

issuing guidance to pathology teams on the best way to use the technology.

Steve Russell, National Director for Vaccinations and Screening at NHS England, said: The NHS’ successful national screening programmes – bowel, breast and cervical – are saving thousands of lives every year by identifying people at risk and spotting cancers early.

While we are already using some digital innovations to improve the accuracy of cancer diagnosis, we look forward to further utilising digital pathology imagery for the benefit of screening patients.

The UK National Screening Committee is an independent Scientific Advisory Committee that advises ministers and the NHS across the UK on all aspects of screening. They meet three times a year and consider work undertaken by the sub-groups on various conditions and existing programmes.

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GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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SMOKERS ENCOURAGED TO QUIT THIS NEW YEAR FOR THEIR HEALTH

In a hard-hitting campaign film released today, former England goalkeeper and ex-smoker David James joins a number of other ex-smokers to discuss the influence their parents’ smoking had on them taking up the habit themselves and how being around children was their motivation to quit.

It comes as the NHS launches a brand new smokefree campaign to encourage all 5.3 million smokers in England to make a quit attempt this January – not only for their health, but also to help ensure young people are not being influenced to start smoking.

Research lays bare the stark reality – teens are more than 3 times as likely to smoke if their parents, caregivers or friends do. In a new, poignant film released today, the former England goalkeeper discusses how his family members and friends smoked around him when he was a youngster, which led to him taking up the habit. In the film, he describes how smoking impacted his performance on the football world stage.

The UK is now in the lead to be the first country in the world to create a smokefree generation by phasing out the sale of tobacco, and is set to introduce a new law to stop children who turned 14 in 2023 – or are younger – from ever legally being sold tobacco in England.

Three-quarters (76%) of people in England support the principle of creating a smokefree generation a YouGov survey – commissioned by campaign group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) – has found, with only 9% opposing. Support for creating a smokefree generation is similar regardless of age or region.

Former England goalkeeper, David James, said: I smoked for about 15 years and at the time, it was normal. My mum smoked, my friends smoked, it was around me. It didn’t take long for me to be hooked.

Looking back, it had a huge impact on my health and performance at the time, I wish I never started.

My health, my children and my fans were huge motivators for me to quit – I didn’t want younger people to see me smoking and think it was okay.

David James is joined by a number of other ex-smokers in the film to discuss the influence their parents’ smoking had on them taking up the habit themselves.

They are accompanied by Nick Hopkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Imperial College London, who was involved with the UK Millennium Cohort Study research, and TV doctor, Dr Sarah Jarvis, who talks through the wider impact of generational smoking.

Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, said: Smoking causes a range of diseases that affect people throughout their lives.

Stopping people becoming addicted to smoking and helping those who have been addicted to quit are 2 of the most important measures we can take to improve health.

Quitting will improve your health whatever your age and no matter how long you have smoked, it’s never too late to stop.

The government continues to go further and faster to support people to quit smoking. Under the world-first Swap to Stop scheme, the government has so far

received requests from local authorities nationwide for an unprecedented 259,000 vapes.

Vaping is rightly used by adults as a tool to quit smoking, but the health advice is clear: if you don’t smoke, don’t vape – and children should never vape.

As part of the scheme, almost 1 in 5 of all smokers in England will be provided with a vape starter kit alongside behavioural support to help them quit the habit.

This is part of a series of new measures to help the government meet its ambition of making England smokefree.

Public Health Minister, Andrea Leadsom, said: Smoking is the biggest preventable killer in the UK and places a huge burden on our NHS. Cigarettes are responsible for 64,000 deaths a year in England alone – no other consumer product kills up to two-thirds of its users.

That’s why we need to act now to prevent our children from ever lighting one. Our historic Tobacco and Vapes Bill will protect the next generation from the harms of smoking and risk of addiction.

Smoking is still the single largest preventable cause of death in England. Almost every minute of every day someone is admitted to hospital with a smokingrelated disease.

Smoking costs the economy and wider society £17 billion a year. This includes an annual £14 billion loss to productivity, through smoking-related lost earnings, unemployment and early death, as well as costs to the NHS and social care of £3 billion. This is equivalent to the annual salaries of over half a million nurses, 390,000 GPs, 400,000 police officers, or 400 million GP appointments.

Reducing the prevalence of smoking will reduce those costs, lower pressure on the NHS and help the economy become more productive.

Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Imperial College London, Nick Hopkinson, said: We know that most people who smoke start as teenagers, and taking up smoking at a young age is linked to a greater risk of health problems later in life.

Our research shows that the influence of family and friends is a significant driving force in young people taking up cigarettes in the first place, making them more than 3 times as likely to start smoking if their parents, caregivers or friends do.

We must do what we can now to ensure our children are the first smokefree gen-

eration.

Research suggests that people who start smoking under the age of 18 have higher levels of nicotine dependency and are less

likely to quit smoking later in life. Imperial College London’s analysis of UK Millennium Cohort Study data also found that 1 in 10 (10.6%) teenagers were regular smokers at the age of 17 – this equates to approximately 160,000 young people in the UK being regular smokers by the age of 17.

Currently, 4 in 5 smokers start before the age of 20 and smoking from a younger age is linked to being more likely to smoke in later years. This has a significant lasting impact, as someone who quits before turning 30 could add 10 years to their life.

Deborah Arnott, chief executive of ASH, said: Over three-quarters of the public support the Prime Minister’s ambition to create a smokefree generation.

Legislation to end cigarette sales to anyone born on or after the 1 January 2009 will be crucial to delivering that ambition.

But as role models for their children, parents who smoke can play their part too.

Stopping smoking will not only improve their health and put money in their pocket, but also significantly increase the chances their children will grow up to be part of the smokefree generation.

TV doctor, Dr Sarah Jarvis, said: Smoking is highly addictive, particularly for our children. We know that most smokers start in their youth and many want to quit – but the addictive nature of cigarettes means they cannot.

But there’s help available for those looking to stop smoking. The NHS has a range of free support, including local stop smoking services.

Better Health offers a range of free quitting support, including a local stop smoking services look-up tool, as well as advice on stop smoking aids including information on how vaping can help you quit smoking.

For free support to quit this January, search ‘Smokefree’.

UNPAID CARERS SAVING NORTHERN IRELAND’S HEALTH SERVICE £5.8 BILLION PER YEAR People providing unpaid care for sick or disabled family members and friends are saving Northern Ireland’s health service £5.8 billion in care costs each year. According to new research from the University of Birmingham led ESRC Centre for Care and Carers NI. The care they are providing for their loved ones would cost Health Trusts a combined £16 million every day, or more than half a million pounds (£0.7 million) each hour, if it was being delivered by staff – an increase of over 40% in the last decade and significantly higher than the equivalent rise in England (+30%) and Wales (+17%) during the same period.

In total, unpaid carers in Northern Ireland are saving the equivalent of 80% of the Department of Health’s entire day-to-day spending budget for 2023-24.

Campaigners say that Northern Ireland’s deteriorating health system is treating unpaid carers like ‘workhorses’ and called for the immediate return of the Stormont government to reform services.

The economic contribution made by carers has increased by 42% in the last decade and paints a stark picture of the savings they make to healthcare budgets. Without unpaid carers, our health and social care systems would collapse.

Professor Matt Bennett, University of Birmingham Louise Vance, 43, lives in Belfast and provides unpaid care for her mum, who suffers from chronic

heart and lung conditions and memory loss following a brain haemorrhage. She said, “Our Health Trust’s limited toolbox of services and money leaves me in a constant state of high anxiety and stress, scared for both my mum’s physical and mental health and my own. The little support I do get is pathetic and does nothing to alleviate the pressure I am under on a daily basis. Carers like me are unsupported, uncared for, dismissed and expected to just keep on supporting our loved ones under totally unsustainable conditions until we burn out.”

According to the research, the annual amount of money saved by unpaid carers is greatest in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (£1.3 billion), followed by the Belfast Trust (£1.1 billion) and the Southern Trust (£1 billion).

The research report argues that Northern Ireland’s ageing population, rising prevalence of disability and long-term health conditions and lack of capacity in domiciliary care services are behind the growing

pressure on unpaid carers. It calls for a legal right to breaks from caring, the development of a new Carers Strategy and expanded provision of community care packages across Health Trusts.

Professor Matt Bennett from the University of Birmingham and research lead on the report, comments: “The economic contribution made by carers has increased by 42% in the last decade and paints a stark picture of the savings they make to health care budgets. Without unpaid carers, our health and social care systems would collapse.

“In fact, our work shows that people are providing more hours of unpaid care than ever before. We hope policy makers see the urgent need to act to support unpaid carers.”

The research shows that during the last decade, the increase in the amount of money unpaid carers are saving the health service in Northern Ireland (42%) is significantly higher than in England (30%) and Wales (17%).

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January 2024

FOOD

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ASIAN WORLD’S KITCHEN

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MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA (DESSERT MASTERS) CONTESTANT:

CHEF KAY LENE TAN

By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author) Chef Kay-Lene Tan (Instagram A/c: kaylenetan_ ) was raised in Singapore but was born in Melbourne, Australia. In 2013, she made her way back to Melbourne, Australia. She worked in documentary production before she became a chef. At the age of 24, she decided to change careers after experiencing what she called a “quarter life crisis.” Before having the chance to work with Chef Joel Robuchon at his flagship restaurant in Singapore for two years, she enrolled in a trade school in that country. She then found herself working with her mentor, Chef Andres Lara, at Pollen. She spent eight years as the executive pastry chef of the Tonka and Coda restaurants in the Melbourne CBD after returning to Melbourne, and she later moved on to the Executive Pastry Chef position at the Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, where she remained until August 2023. She currently works with Chef Adam D’Sylva on a new eatery called Decca, which is set to open in the first half of 2024.

Q.) Please tell us about your Masterchefau experience.

Chef Kay: It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

It was extremely humble to have the chance to stand next to so many chefs who I regard as industry legends. I gained a lot of knowledge from the experience. We had such amazing friendships and camaraderie while working on the show!

Q.) What challenges did you have to overcome to succeed in life?

Chef Kay: It was difficult for me to find my voice

Instagram A/c: aviationauthor.ridakhan

and learn how to stand up for myself when I first started because the kitchen was still relatively maledominated. Honestly, the road to where I am now has been a long and winding one. Chefs I’ve met have also told me I won’t amount to anything in the industry, but all of their criticism has only inspired me to work even harder to succeed and disprove their predictions. To reach this point in my career, I have had to put in a great deal of sacrifice, hard work, and dedication.

Q.) How would you describe your cooking style?

Chef Kay: I enjoy making desserts that convey a story, whether it be about a person who has inspired me or about my own experiences. Nothing brings me greater joy than hearing someone enjoy a dessert I’ve made and remark, “Oh, this takes me back…” or “This reminds me of a time…” My Asian heritage is something I frequently incorporate into my works; it’s important to always remember where you’ve come from in order to know where you’re heading.

Q.) Where is your favorite place to dine in Singapore?

Chef Kay: I really enjoy eating at Bedok 85 Hawker Centre, even though it’s not luxurious. Meatball noodles (Bak Chor Mee), sambal stingray, glutinous rice balls (Tang Yuan) for dessert. It makes me hungry to even think about it now!

Q.) Give an overview of Singaporean cuisine.

Chef Kay: I consider myself extremely fortunate

to have grown up in Singapore, where the culinary options are truly diverse. I also adore how certain dishes have changed as a result of the distinct tastes of the Singaporean palate. Similar to how much Singaporeans enjoy a good, crispy Roti Prata!

Q.) Why are hawker centres in Singapore so wellknown?

Chef Kay: Hawkers have dedicated their entire lives to mastering a single dish or cooking technique. It elevates them to the status of creators. In fact, it’s amazing! When it comes to food, hawkers are the best places to get value for your money, and their food is always delicious!

Q.) Noodles, rice, and seafood are the three main components of Singaporean cuisine. What is the origin of these pillars?

Chef Kay: Due to our strategic location, Singapore was a bustling trading port at the time of its founding, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Because rice and noodles were frequently the main starch in many one-dish meals, they were essentially a staple. Being an island city, one of the easiest ways to obtain protein was through seafood.

Q.) How is the food of Singapore evolving over time?

Chef Kay: Since the publication of the Michelin guide in Singapore, the number of upscale restaurants in the city-state has undoubtedly increased.

Many chefs have taken humble dishes from their

upbringing and transformed them into elegant dining experiences. The degree of innovation in dining options that Singapore is witnessing is truly remarkable.

Q.) What factors are all important to take into account when becoming a desert chef?

Chef Kay: A pastry chef’s ability to pay attention to detail is unquestionably essential. Because a lot of what we do requires accuracy and knowledge of ingredients. I once heard from one of my chefs that pastry is like chemistry and that measurements are crucial.

Q.) Any advice for the aspiring chef?

Chef Kay: Find a restaurant you love working at or a great mentor, and dedicate more than three months of your time to them. Becoming a sponge and soaking up as much information as you can is crucial when you’re first starting out. And enjoy the journey. A lot of young chefs are eager to open their own eateries and design menus, but in the beginning, cooking is so much more enjoyable when one is not concerned with the business side of things. When the time comes for you to take charge, the more you learn—even just by observing—the more motivated you will be. And always be humble. Being humble is crucial for chefs. I always remember Theodore Roosevelt saying, ” Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.”

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GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

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WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

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TECH 27

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MOTORING 29-30

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January 2024

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MEDICINES AND MEDICAL DEVICES:

5 TOP TIPS FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

Christmas and New Year is a time when we particularly want to keep well and stay safe. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has set out 5 festive top tips for people taking medicines or using medical devices.

Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the MHRA said, “For many people, the festive season is a time for coming together, creating treasured memories, and sharing traditions. But with all the busyness at this time of year, it’s important not to let being safe fall off your To Do List, particularly when it comes to using medical products.

“These top tips will stand you in good stead anytime of the year too.”

1) Some medicines may interact with food and drink.

The festive season is often a time for eating and drinking more than we might do at other times. But did you know that some products can interact with your medicines, altering their effects or increasing the risk of side effects?

Cranberries are often associated with Christmas. If you’re taking warfarin, for example, used to prevent and treat blood clots, do not eat cranberry products or drink cranberry juice. This might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.

Brussels sprouts, broccoli and green leafy Christmas vegetables contain a lot of vitamin K, which is a chemical the body uses to promote blood clotting. Vitamin K counteracts the effects of warfarin and can make it less effective.

It’s important that you eat foods containing vitamin K, so rather than leaving

them out of your diet, make sure you eat similar amounts of them regularly.

This will mean the level of vitamin K in your blood stays fairly constant and makes it more likely that your blood monitoring level stays stable.

Alcohol can affect the way your medicines work. Some antibiotics, for example, can have side effects such as feeling sick or dizzy, which might be made worse by drinking alcohol. You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist about whether it is safe to drink alcohol if you are taking medicines.

You should also check non-alcoholic drinks. Before sipping that mocktail containing grapefruit juice, check that you can! For example, do not drink grapefruit juice if you’re taking simvastatin – used to lower cholesterol. It increases the level of the drug in your blood and makes side effects more likely. Some medicines used in the treatment of cancers may interact with grapefruit juice too.

There are several other medicines that may interact with certain types of food and drinks. The risk of experiencing a side effect due to a medicine interaction can vary a lot from person to person.

One of the best ways to check if your medicine could cause interactions is to read your Patient Information Leaflet that comes with it, or you can ask your pharmacist or GP for advice.

2) Take analgesics (paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen) wisely.

Hopefully you’ll escape winter colds, flu and COVID-19 over the festive season. But if not, you might reach for your

packet of painkillers. If so, always check the dosage instructions.

These medicines are safe and effective when taken as instructed. Taking too much can be dangerous and you may need treatment. For example, too much paracetamol can cause liver damage.

3) Beware of dodgy diet products.

Wanting to lose weight is a common New Year’s resolution. If that’s something you want to do, be aware that criminals could lure you into a quick fix by offering fake, potentially harmful products such as dodgy diet pills or fake weight loss pens online.

We recently warned about these dangers asking people not to buy pre-filled pens claiming to contain Ozempic (semaglu-

tide) or Saxenda (liraglutide). People should only use medicines like Ozempic or Saxenda where they’ve been prescribed it by a qualified healthcare professional and with a prescription.

Be careful when buying medicines online. Fake medicines and medical devices bought online can lead to serious health risks.

If anyone has a concern about their weight and health, they should visit their GP or pharmacist, get a correct diagnosis and if medicines are prescribed, obtain them from a legitimate source.

All pharmacies in Great Britain, including those online, must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and meet their standards for reg-

istered pharmacies.

Visit the #FakeMeds website for tools and resources to help you purchase medicines or medical devices safely online.

4) Medicines and driving.

Many of us are likely to be driving home for Christmas or taking to the roads to see family and friends. Certain types of medicines can impair your driving so make sure you check your Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) supplied with your medicine before getting behind the wheel. The PIL will tell you if your medicine may affect your driving ability.

Did you know that it’s against the law to drive if your driving ability is impaired by any medicine? Do not drive if you feel drowsy, dizzy, unable to concentrate or make decisions, or if you have blurred or double vision.

5) Report medicine side effects and adverse incidents from medical devices to the MHRA. Most people take medicines without suffering any side effects or use medical devices without causing them harm. But no effective medicine is without risk and adverse incidents may occur when using medical devices.

If you suspect you’ve had a side effect or adverse incident over the festive season, or indeed at any time, please report it to our safety monitoring system, the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. By doing so, you are directly helping to improve the safety of medicines and medical devices for everyone.

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January 2024

MOTORING TARIFFS ON ELECTRIC VEHICLES AVOIDED AS UK AND EU EXTEND TRADE RULES

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To access zero tariffs under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), businesses must prove their products include a minimum level of EU or UK manufactured content. These requirements are known as “rules of origin” and help determine where products originate rather than where they’re shipped from to ensure lower tariffs are correctly applied to eligible products and support market competition.

Under the existing Trade and Cooperation Agreement, a staged approach was introduced for electric vehicles and batteries which required phased increases in these rules of origin requirements – with the first increase due to take effect on 1 January 2024, before a final increase from 1 January 2027.

This phased approach would increase the content requirements for electric vehicles to be eligible for tariff free trade over the next three years. These were initially designed to reflect industry capability at the time and incentivise investment in domestic battery production.

However, in recognition of the disruption to the global supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the UK and EU have agreed to cancel the 2024 changes, meaning the existing rules of origin will last for a further three years until the end of 2026.

This agreement facilitates UK-EU tarifffree trade in electric vehicles and prevents 10% tariffs being levied on this trade from January. Industry expects this will save car manufacturers and consumers up to £4.3 billion in additional costs and provide long term certainty to the sector as we continue to scale up our domestic battery supply chain and work to deliver our net zero commitments.

We have listened to the concerns of the automotive industry, and we have made it a priority to find a joint solution with the EU on electric vehicle tariffs that works for both sides. Today’s agreement is further evidence that our more constructive relationship with the EU is delivering for UK citizens and businesses, building on the Windsor Framework and the bespoke agreement reached on the Horizon research programme.

Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said:

This government is determined to ensure the UK remains one of the best places in the world for automotive manufacturing.

We listened to the concerns of the sector and worked hard with counterparts in Brussels and across Europe to deliver a solution that works for both sides.

Resolving issues like this one is part and parcel of being an independent trading nation. This very good result is a visible demonstration that the UK is delivering for business with trading partners around the world.

The UK will also look to agree to extend the equivalent rules of origin in the UK-Turkey preferential trade agreement ready for the end of the year, in a further boost for UK car companies who are major exporters to the Turkish market, such as Ford. This will ensure the existing rules of origin will last for a further three years until the end of 2026, and comes as the UK looks to start negotiations for a new modern free trade agreement with Turkey next year.

The agreement comes as both the UK and EU committed to working together to bolster our domestic battery supply chain.

At the Autumn Statement the Chancellor announced that we’re making available £4.5 billion over five years through the Advanced Manufacturing Plan to unlock private investment in strategic manufacturing sectors across the UK. This includes over £2 billion in R&D and capital funding for the automotive sector to support the manufacturing and development of zero emission vehicles, their batteries and supply chain – building on existing support.

Last month we published the UK’s first ever Battery Strategy, outlining our plan for the UK to attract investment and achieve a globally competitive battery supply chain by 2030. In the strategy, we announced an additional £50 million investment to develop the UK’s battery industry and to secure a resilient UK manufacturing supply chain. The battery sector alone could create 100,000 highly paid and skilled jobs in the UK. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: Deferring the rules of origin is a win for motorists, the economy and the environment. Maintaining tariff-free trade in EVs will ensure consumers retain the widest

WWW.CAPITALBUSINESSHUB.CO.UK

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: We have been listening to concerns of the sector throughout this process, and I know this breakthrough will come as a huge relief to the industry.

The UK Government is delivering a pragmatic solution to keep costs down for businesses and for people at home who want to make the switch to electric vehicles.

We are also leaving no stone unturned to bolster our domestic battery industry and deliver long term certainty for our thriving automotive sector to help them grow their roots in the UK. and most affordable choice of models, at a time when we need all drivers to make the switch.

Governments have listened to the sector and acted to safeguard the competitiveness of the EU and UK automotive industries and give the Anglo-European battery industry the critical time it needs to catch up. The measure will help cut carbon, support growth and jobs, and is the right decision for the decarbonisation of road transport.

Lisa Brankin, Chair, Ford Britain said: On behalf of Ford in the UK, I want to thank policymakers in London and Brussels for listening to and engaging with a united automotive industry. Today’s decision to avoid unnecessary tariff costs is

a major moment that will protect jobs, support countless investments, and mostimportantly help to keep costs down for consumers and businesses on their journey to an all-electric future.

The Government’s focus on updating the UK-Turkey battery trade rules to reflect today’s agreement with the EU is also very welcome. Our dedicated Ford Pro organisation is committed to helping businesses go electric and this swift action will help us to continue do that.

Maria-Grazia Davino, Group Managing Director, Stellantis UK said: We welcome the agreement between the EU-UK to maintain the current Rules of Origin for batteries requirements until January 2027.

We can now focus on our planned acceleration towards electrification, keeping costs down for our customers. The agreement demonstrates the importance of the trading relationship between the EU and UK and keeping the UK competitive.

BMW Group said: We welcome the agreement which has been reached between the European Union and the United Kingdom on their Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

This planning certainty will allow the BMW Group to enhance its manufacturing and sales footprint in this highly competitive market.

The government has already spent over £2 billion to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles, including reducing the upfront cost of electric vehicles and supporting the roll-out of charging infrastructure. There are now over 52,600 public chargepoints across the UK, a 44% increase since this time last year.

Earlier this year, we also published the zero-emission vehicle mandate which will come into effect in 2024, setting out the percentage of new zero emission cars and vans manufacturers will be required to sell each year, starting with a requirement for 22% of new cars sold in 2024 to be zero emission vehicles.

The mandate ensures the UK has the most ambitious regulatory framework of any country for the switch to electric vehicles, reaching 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans being zero emission by 2030, providing long term certainty and direction for the sector as we set out the pathway to phase out all new diesel and petrol cars and vans by 2035, although some manufacturers already plan to reach 100% sooner.

The UK’s approach has already attracted record investments in gigafactories and electric vehicle manufacturing. This includes the recent announcement of a £2bn Nissan led investment to produce two new electric vehicles in Sunderland, Tata’s investment of over £4 billion in a new 40 GWh gigafactory, BMW’s investment of £600m to build next generation MINI EVs in Oxford, Ford’s investment of £380 million in Halewood to make Electric Drive Units and Stellantis’ £100m investment in Ellesmere Port for EV van production.

LOCAL 2-12

GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

TRAVEL

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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SINGAPORE AIRLINES WILL BEGIN NONSTOP SERVICE TO LONDON GATWICK IN 2024

By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author) In June 2024, Singapore Airlines (SIA) will begin operating its first nonstop flights between Singapore and London’s Gatwick Airport. This is the airline’s most recent announcement for 2024. A350900 aircraft are going to be used for the long-haul variant. With 42 seats in Business class, 24 in Premium Economy class, and 187 in Economy class, the A350-900 has 253

seats spread across three cabin classes.

A350-900 will offer services five times a week. On Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, flight SQ310 will be in operation.

The inaugural flight is scheduled to take off on June 21, 2024, at 2355hrs local time from Singapore to Gatwick Airport, arriving in London on June 22, 2024, at 0625hrs lo-

cal time.

Regarding the return flights, Gatwick Airport will host flight SQ309 to Singapore on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On June 22, 2024, at 1015hrs (local time), the inaugural return flight will take off, and on June 23, 2024, it will arrive in Singapore at 0620hrs. Customers who arrive early in the morning will have the opportunity

to connect to flights operated

by SIA and Scoot that travel to locations in Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia.

Acting Senior Vice President of Marketing Planning at Singapore Airlines, Mr. Dai Haoyu, stated, “London has always been a very important market for the Singapore Airlines Group. With the introduction of this new service to London’s Gatwick Airport, Singapore Airlines’ customers will have an additional flight to choose from when flying between Singapore and the UK. It also opens up additional travel options to other points in Europe and the AsiaPacific region.”

The London Gatwick Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Stew-

art Wingate, declared, “Renowned as one of the world’s best carriers, we are delighted to welcome Singapore Airlines to London Gatwick. It showcases the high regard in which Gatwick is held and connecting to the impressive Changi Airport is a big boost for the whole region. For passengers across London and the South East, the new route will provide huge connectivity potential not only to the fantastic destination of Singapore, but more widely across South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand. With significant increases in trade between the UK and Singapore in recent years the service also provides exciting opportunities for local and regional businesses.”

We can observe that the gateway to exploring the nation’s capital and the South East of England is London’s Gatwick Airport. Additionally, the airport provides transport services into central London, with trains taking passengers directly to major hubs like London Bridge, London Blackfriars, St. Pancras International, London Victoria, and City Thameslink.

As a result, the SIA network will have more European destinations thanks to Gatwick.

After a seamless journey, visitors from Singapore will appreciate the UK’s stunning cities.

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January 2024

TECHNOLOGY

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FAMILIES COULD USE ELECTRIC VEHICLE BATTERIES TO POWER HOMES AND SAVE ON BILLS AS GOVERNMENT BACKS NEW CHARGING TECHNOLOGIES Families could soon save hundreds of pounds on energy bills by using electricity stored in their electric vehicles (EVs) to power home appliances such as fridges and washing machines – thanks to new 2-way charging technologies being supported with government funding. zHouseholds could power their home appliances as a result of the development of bidirectional charging, which enables electricity stored in a vehicle’s battery to flow back into the grid or back into the home and workplaces, which can then be used to power other devices.

This builds on existing smart charging technologies, where EVs can be charged when electricity prices are lower overnight. Families could then use these Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technologies to save money on their bills by selling the electricity back to the grid when prices are higher.

Businesses could also benefit from the V2X technologies by storing electricity in their fleets of EVs and using it to power their operations at a later date. These technologies will also help make it even easier to rely on renewable technologies such as solar panels, with less need for fossil fu-

els to provide for surges in demand by allowing stored renewable energy to be sold into the grid instead.

Four projects are today receiving a share of £4.8 million of government funding to support their work testing and implementing these innovative technologies.

Minister for Affordability and Skills Amanda Solloway said: The prospect of families being able to store energy on their doorstep in electric vehicles and use it to power their homes is incredibly exciting.

This is exactly the sort of ingenuity and creativity that makes the UK one of the world’s most innovative nations.

By backing this technology, we could save families hundreds of pounds a year, while also supporting jobs, investment and growth.

Transport Minister for Technology and Decarbonisation Anthony Browne said: We’re continuing to support drivers, and this innovative new development is the next step in levelling-up our charging technology, which will benefit many households across the country.

This government has already spent over £2 bil-

lion in the transition to electric vehicles and our charging network is growing at pace, with 44% more public chargepoints than this time last year, meaning drivers can charge more easily than before.

The UK has also committed to ending the sale of all new non-zero emission vehicles by 2035 to support the delivery of net zero. This ambition, combined with government support for industry through technologies like V2X, is helping cement the UK’s world leading position in the design, manufacture, and use of zero emissions vehicles, which will provide economic growth by stimulating employment, investment, and exports.

This follows the Prime Minister’s proportionate and pragmatic decision to delay the ban on new diesel and petrol cars from 2030 to 2035 – bringing the UK in line with countries such as Canada and Spain – which will support manufacturers and families in making the switch to electric, providing flexibility while also helping to grow the economy.

Dr Marco Landi, Head of Technology and Innovation, Electrification Services, JLR said: We are delighted to be collaborating on this project with partners and the UK government to be able to accelerate and pioneer V2X technology.

This funding will drive our work to make charging simpler, greener and cost effective, which is key to our all-electric future.

Working together with industry-leading partners, we are developing a complete EV ecosystem, from batteries to charging, supporting our net-zero transformation.

The programme is part of the overarching up to £65 million Flexibility Innovation Programme, supporting the efficient and flexible use of electricity, within the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP).

The successful companies are: • Hangar19 Ltd in Chelmsford – will demonstrate a 3-socket bidirectional charger, making a wider range of EVs available for energy flexibility and bidirectional charging • 3ti Energy Hubs Ltd in Leatherhead – will combine a quick-to-deploy bidirectional charging hub with a solar canopy and energy storage battery, house in recycled shipping containers, which can make access to bidirectional charging available in more destinations, including vehicle depots • Otaski Energy Solutions Ltd in Gateshead – will trial their bidirectional EV charger to enable fleet EV operators to access energy in a flexible way which could deliver savings in line with electricity supply and demand surges • Electric Green Limited in London – will work with QEnergy to trial wireless V2X technology with a fleet of 20 delivery vehicles at Royal Mail This funding builds on existing government funding for electric vehicle charging, such as the £70 million pilot scheme, announced at COP28 in Dubai. This will also boost the number of ultra-rapid charge points at motorway services.

It comes as some of the world’s leading car manufacturers are choosing the UK as their home to develop the latest electric vehicles and the battery technology. They include: • BMW, who have announced a £600 million investment to transform their Oxford plant to build the electric Mini • JLR (a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Motors Limited, part of Tata Sons) – Tata Sons are investing £4 billion in a new gigafactory to create up to 4,000 highly skilled jobs • Nissan, who have announced they are delivering up to £2 billion investment to create a new electric vehicle manufacturing hub in Sunderland – helping put more zero emission vehicles on UK road

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GLOBAL 13-15

BUSINESS 16-17

GLAM 18-20

WEDDINGS 21-22

HEALTH 23-24

FOOD 25-26

SPORTS

TECH 27

TRAVEL 28

MOTORING 29-30

SPORTS 31

January 2024

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STAR STUDDED FOOTBALL FOR PEACE (FFP) PANEL & MATCH SUPPORTED

BY THE ICONIC AC SPARTA PRAGUE transformative power of sport in fostering mutual respect. The event received additional support from key delegation members, including the Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Uzra Zeya, and H.E. Ambassador Bijan Sabet.

Accomplished international and local football players and figures, alongside ministers, AC Sparta Prague’s academy team players, former professional footballers, and stars like David Lafata and Borek Dockal, demonstrated the unifying power of sports in building interreligious and cross-cultural communities through their active participation in match.

Former AC Sparta Praha Captain Costa Nhamoinesu said: “Football holds a profound significance as a unifying force, connecting and uniting diverse communities in the shared joy of the beautiful game. Football for Peace is doing great work to amplify the message of unity.”

Professional international Footballer Steven Caulker said: “Football is a universal language understood by all, and we need to use it as a vehicle to create change in support of athletes, young people and communities. Big shoutout to Football for Peace for doing awesome work, spreading unity and harmony through the beautiful game!”

U.S. Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya said: “I have learned that success in diplomacy is not all that different from the playing field – it requires training, discipline, good judgement, and teamwork. Merging these two

President and co-founder of Football for Peace Kash Siddiqi said:

“

I extend my sincere appreciation to all participants and collaborators, especially the Czech MFA, AC Sparta Praha, and the U.S. State Department, for joining forces to amplify this crucial message and occasion.

The collaborative efforts underscore the significance of sports diplomacy in advancing the cause of religious freedom, showcasing how partnerships between esteemed entities can catalyse positive change on a global scale. Together, we have laid the groundwork for future initiatives that leverage the unifying force of football to foster harmony and champion the vital cause of religious freedom worldwide.

“

The 2023 International Ministerial Conference for the Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance witnessed a fusion of diplomacy and sportsmanship as Football for Peace (FfP), AC Sparta Praha Club, the U.S. Department of State, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic united for a remarkable starstudded Football for Peace panel and match in Prague. This ground-breaking collaboration showcased the unifying power of sports in building inter-religious and cross-cultural communities.

The distinguished panel took place at the historic Czernin Palace, where influential figures from the world of football gathered to deliberate on the pivotal role that sports, and faith play in bridging gaps across communities and impacting their sporting lives. The illustrious panel featured former international player and co-founder of Football for Peace, Kash Siddiqi; former Chairman of Bournemouth Football Club, Jeff Mostyn; former Professional Football Player and Sparta Prague Legend, Costa Nhamoinesu; former Tottenham, Liverpool FC and International Professional Football Player, Steven Caulker and former Everton F.C and Senegal national team Football Player, Oumar Niasse.

Following the insightful FfP Panel, the attention shifted to Prague’s iconic Great Strahov stadium for a highly anticipated match that promised to be a spectacle of camaraderie.

Teams composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds, faiths, and professions converged on the football field to showcase the

worlds is only fitting; in fact, sports diplomacy is an effective way to bring people together and build mutual understanding, cooperation, and unity. Thank you to our hosts, the Czech MFA, and to our partners – Football for Peace and Sparta Prague.”

U.S. Ambassador at Large Rashad Hussain said: “We have to continue planting the seeds for the long run. There are so many important ways in which we are doing that this week—through interfaith and multi-faith work, as well as the people-to-people connections we are building.

We saw that in a very real way on the football pitch, where Football for Peace performed an incredible display.When you are cheering for your team, you are not cheering for people of just one ethnic, racial, or religious background; you are cheering for your team. And that’s powerful. Athletes have such an important and incredible platform, and many of you are using it in impactful ways. I encourage you to use that platform to bring people together because it’s incredible what sports have the ability to do.”

Ambassador of Czech Republic Rudolf Hykl said: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic was delighted to host the Ministerial Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief, of which the panel and the exhibition on the role of football in creating culture of religious tolerance and respect was an important part. Thanks go to all co-organisers of the event, most importantly to the leading Czech football club AC Sparta Praha, who was instrumental in organising and staging the successful sporting event.”