The Nation Newspaper

Category: Foreign

  • Tinubu hails Mexico’s first female president-elect

    Tinubu hails Mexico’s first female president-elect

    President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Mexico’s President-elect, Claudia Sheinbaum, on her landmark victory as the country’s first female President since its independence in 1821.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu hailed Sheinbaum’s election as a significant milestone, noting that it amplifies the voices of women in government, shatters political glass ceilings, and sends a powerful message globally on the importance of women’s participation in decision-making processes.

    Sheinbaum’s landslide victory in the Mexican presidential election marks a historic moment for the country and the world at large.

    President Tinubu, on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, extended warm congratulations to the people of Mexico and called for strengthening bilateral ties between both nations in areas of mutual interest.

    Read Also: Binance will face due pocess on financial crimes charges – FG

    “President Bola Tinubu extends his congratulations to Her Excellency, Ms. Claudia Sheinbaum on her historic election as the first female President of the United Mexican States (Mexico).

    “Ms. Sheinbaum won the Mexican presidential election by a landslide, becoming the first female President in the country since its independence in 1821.

    “President Tinubu states that the election of President-elect Sheinbaum accents the voices of women in government, shatters political glass ceiling, and sends a reverberating message across the world that women must not only be participants but principal architects in shaping and implementing decisions affecting the lives of many.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, the President congratulates the people of Mexico and calls for the strengthening of bilateral ties between both nations across areas of mutual interest”, the statement said.

  • ANC proposes unity government after losing majority

    ANC proposes unity government after losing majority

    The African National Congress (ANC) has proposed forming a government of national unity after losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since the end of apartheid.

    The ANC’s share of the vote plummeted from 57.5% in 2019 to 40.2% in the recent May 29 election, driven by high unemployment, degraded public services, and the emergence of new political challenges.

    The ANC’s influential national working committee has recommended this multiparty approach, recognizing the need for a coalition to ensure stable governance.

    ANC spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri emphasiSed the party’s commitment to this path during a press briefing, stating: “The conversation is looking at a government of national unity, because this is what the people of South Africa have said to us: put together a multiparty arrangement that works for the benefit of South Africa,”

    The proposal is set to be discussed by the ANC’s national executive committee later this week.

    The Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s second-largest party, has firmly opposed any coalition involving the Marxist-inspired Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), the fourth-largest party.

    DA spokesperson, Solly Malatsi reiterated the party’s stance, warning against a “doomsday coalition” with the EFF or the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, which secured a surprising third place.

    Both the EFF and MK advocate for radical policies such as nationalizing the central bank and seizing land from white farmers.

    Read Also: Minimum wage: Committee adjourns to allow Finance Minister meet deadline

    EFF leader, Julius Malema has also dismissed the idea of a government of national unity, cautioning against including parties he views as unsuitable.

    “We don’t want a government of national unity; we will end up with the wrong people,” Malema asserted.

    Despite these challenges, political analysts like Marisa Lourenço suggest that practical considerations might drive the DA and EFF to collaborate.

    “There’s a lot of power attached to being in a government of national unity,”

    Lourenço noted, indicating that the desire for influence might override ideological differences.

    Meanwhile, the MK party, led by former president Jacob Zuma, has refused to engage with the ANC under President Cyril Ramaphosa.

    MK spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela announced that the party is preparing a legal challenge to the election results and has not been in contact with the ANC since initial overtures during the vote counting.

  • Biden tightens asylum rules for border with Mexico

    Biden tightens asylum rules for border with Mexico

    United States President Joe Biden yesterday issued an executive order to ramp up measures to prevent asylum seekers from entering via the country’s border with Mexico.

    “I’m announcing actions to ban migrants who cross our southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum.

     “Migrants will be restricted from receiving asylum at our southern border unless they seek it after entering through an established lawful process,’’ Biden said in Washington.

    The U.S. president went on to say that asylum would still be available to those who try to enter the U.S. legally.

     “But if an individual chooses not to use our legal pathways, if they choose to come without permission and against the law, they’ll be restricted from receiving asylum and staying in the U.S

    “This ban will remain in place until the number of people trying to enter illegally is reduced to a level that our system can effectively manage,’’ Biden continued.

    The White House earlier in the day published a presidential decree according to which migrants could be denied the chance to claim asylum in certain circumstances.

    This was criticised by both human rights activists and Republicans.

    Read Also: Binance will face due pocess on financial crimes charges – FG

    Those affected by the decree were to be deported at short notice if they do not explicitly request asylum.

    Those who did so would be subjected to stricter checks by border officials.

    Hamas insists on permanent ceasefire, withdrawal for deal to end war

    Palestinian Islamists Hamas say they are sticking to their demands and will only agree to a deal to end the Gaza war if it includes a permanent ceasefire.

    In addition, the Israeli military would have to withdraw completely from the Gaza Strip, a representative of the Islamist organisation emphasised at a press conference in the Lebanese capital Beirut.

    If the Israeli side does not agree to these points, no agreement could be reached.

    Hamas is waiting for the Israelis’ response.

    Hamas representatives have made similar demands several times in the past.

  • Slovenia officially recognises Palestinian state

    Slovenia officially recognises Palestinian state

    The Slovenian Parliament has voted to approve the proposal of recognising the statehood of Palestine, a move the legislative body said would hopefully help stop the violence in Gaza.

    Fifty-two parliamentary members out of 90 seats voted for the recognition, making Slovenia the fourth European country after Spain, Norway, and Ireland in recent weeks to make the decision.

    “The Republic of Slovenia recognised Palestine as an independent sovereign state,” Parliamentary Speaker Urska Klakocar Zupancic said after the vote.

    “The recognition of a Palestine state enhances the reputation of Slovenia as a state that respects international law and the United Nations resolutions.

    Read Also: Minimum wage: Committee adjourns to allow Finance Minister meet deadline

    “At the same time we would exert pressure on both sides: on Israel to stop attacks on Gaza and on Hamas to release hostages,” Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon told Parliament before the vote.

    “We are working towards peace and the solution of two states,” she added.

    Most members of the main opposition party, the center-right Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), did not attend the parliamentary session but proposed a referendum to postpone the parliament vote by at least 30 days.

    Their proposal was rejected earlier on Tuesday by a majority in parliament.

    The SDS claims that the recognition of Palestine will not stop the war in Gaza but will only hurt Slovenian interests.

  • New Zealand Introduces 12% Offshore Gambling Duty

    New Zealand Introduces 12% Offshore Gambling Duty

    New Zealand wants offshore casinos operating in the country to pay their fair share of taxes. It is estimated the government will collect over NZD 716 million annually once the tax becomes effective.

    The tax is set at 12% of a casino’s total profits. This excludes the betting handle (total amount wagered), and the money paid out to winners. As per the current gambling laws, taxation will only apply to operators who’ve provided over $60,000 worth of services.

    The government already charges operators a 13% GST tax on their gross gambling revenue. This means the country’s total taxation for gambling businesses will stand at 25%, a competitive rate compared to the rest of the world.

    Online Gambling Regulation in New Zealand

    Online gambling in New Zealand is largely dominated by offshore casinos located in countries like Malta. The explanation is that NZ does not regulate the industry. It allows land-based casinos. But it has no laws that govern iGaming.

    Earlier this year, officials in Kiwi land said they were considering iGaming regulation on principle. The government’s main objective for regulating casinos was to make them pay taxes.

    Although the government has now introduced a taxation policy for online casinos in the country, it is unclear whether it plans to create a licensing body. In many countries where iGaming is legal, there’s a regulatory authority that ensures operators comply with local laws.

    In Malta, where many casinos in Europe are based, regulation is done by the Malta Gaming Authority. In Britain, the Gambling Commission vets and licenses all new operators.

    The popularity of Online Casinos in New Zealand

    New Zealand is one of the fastest-growing online gambling markets in the world. According to Statista, more than 500,000 people play online casino games or bet on sports in the country annually.

    The average Kiwi spends $2,200 gambling online. Many people gamble through their smartphones for convenience. The industry is expected to continue growing in the next few years.

    Increased demand coupled with a decent annual revenue per customer means online casinos will do everything to stay in New Zealand. Many of them are willing to comply with the government’s new tax policies.

    However, the government may experience challenges trying to enforce its taxation policies. NZ can’t sue offshore casinos. It could blacklist and warn them. However, it can’t legally charge companies that are not based in NZ physically.

    Are Offshore Casinos in NZ Safe?

    Offshore casinos are generally safe and trustworthy. Most of them hold valid licenses from regulators like Malta, Gibraltar or Isle of Man. A license is an important document that can help you differentiate a safe from an unsafe casino.

    Many licensed casinos have secure websites, neat web designs and fair games. However, it is in your best interest to verify a site’s features before you create an account. Here are some of the features to look for besides a license:

    ·         Fast and Convenient Payment Methods

    Let’s face it. Convenience is one of the most important features of every online business. If you want to play slots online, you need a way to deposit money into your account quickly.

    Look for a casino that supports mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Skrill or PayPal if you’re into e-wallets. Alternatively, choose a site that supports Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies.

    The best operators offer a bit of every major banking method. They offer electronic checks, bank payments and gift cards. Every payment option has its pros and cons.

    For example, mobile wallets offer fast transactions. However, you need bank payments for large transactions. Cryptocurrencies are equally fast and can handle large amounts. But they can also be volatile.

    ·         A Wide Variety of Games and Software Providers

    Progressive slots are the games you need if you have a dream of winning big at online casinos. If you’re risk averse, choose video slots. They’re less volatile. They come with amazing bonuses and trigger winning symbols more often.

    Table games like blackjack and roulette require a bit of skill and strategies to win. For example, you need to learn the Basic Blackjack strategy to increase your chances of beating the dealer.

    Learn about software providers to have an easy time finding quality games. Let’s say you enjoy Megaways. Big Time Gaming is the best software developer for Megaways slots.

    NetEnt, Microgaming, Betsoft, Play’n GO, Playtech and Blueprint Gaming are some of the best developers for slot machines.

    ·         A Live Casino

    You haven’t experienced online casino gaming at its peak if you’ve never played live casino games. Live gaming gives you a realistic, interactive video-based experience in real-time.

    You can see and interact with dealers and your opponents. Yet, you don’t need to leave your house for this experience. Some casinos also hold competitions for poker, blackjack and baccarat, which elevates the gambling experience.

    Choose a casino with live gaming software from Evolution, Ezugi, Microgaming, Playtech or NetEnt. These are the top software providers in this niche. Evolution, in particular, supplies nearly every casino game you would want. It offers blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, craps and even Monopoly.

    ·         Bonuses and Promotions

    If you love your money, you should find a casino with bonuses. Picture this. A bonus can double your bankroll. If you have a $100 budget, you could double your money to $200.

    Some bonuses give you free spins to play slots even if you don’t make a deposit. And if you win, you can cash out your profits. Bonuses can also come in the form of cashback deals, VIP points and gift cards.

    Search for bonuses with fair terms and conditions. Fair terms help you turn bonus money into cash you can withdraw into your bank fast.

    In Conclusion

    The New Zealand government wants a share of the online gambling pie. Online gaming has a high demand in the country. Yet, for a long time, operators didn’t have to pay taxes in the country.

    Now, NZ will charge a new 12% tax on all offshore casinos from July this year. If you love casino games, choose a company that accepts taxation. They’re more likely to offer quality games, bonuses and fast payouts.

  • U.S. president tightens asylum rules for border with Mexico

    U.S. president tightens asylum rules for border with Mexico

    U.S. President Joe Biden on Wednesday issued an executive order to ramp up measures to prevent asylum seekers from entering via the country’s border with Mexico.

    “I’m announcing actions to ban migrants who cross our southern border unlawfully from receiving asylum.

    “Migrants will be restricted from receiving asylum at our southern border unless they seek it after entering through an established lawful process,’’ Biden said in Washington.

    The U.S. president went on to say that asylum would still be available to those who try to enter the U.S. legally.

    “But if an individual chooses not to use our legal pathways, if they choose to come without permission and against the law, they’ll be restricted from receiving asylum and staying in the U.S

    “This ban will remain in place until the number of people trying to enter illegally is reduced to a level that our system can effectively manage,’’ Biden continued.

    The White House earlier in the day published a presidential decree according to which migrants could be denied the chance to claim asylum in certain circumstances.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Mexico’s first female President-elect Sheinbaum

    This was criticised by both human rights activists and Republicans.

    Those affected by the decree were to be deported at short notice if they do not explicitly request asylum.

    Those who did so would be subjected to stricter checks by border officials.

    Previously, most asylum seekers were generally allowed to stay in the country until their court date which is often years in the future due to overburdened authorities.

    Exceptions to Biden’s decree are to apply to unaccompanied children and people who were seriously ill, as well as victims of human trafficking, among others.

    The new regulation is set to apply as soon as the average number of illegal border crossings in a week exceeds 2,500 per day.

    The measures would then be dropped once the number falls below 1,500 again.

    As the number of daily entries is currently above the new threshold, the measures are set to come into force on Wednesday.

    Mexico is a transit country on the route taken by many Latin Americans fleeing from violence, poverty and political chaos at home trying to reach the U.S. (dpa/NAN) 

  • Biden accuses Netanyahu of prolonging Gaza conflict war for political gain

    Biden accuses Netanyahu of prolonging Gaza conflict war for political gain

    United States President, Joe Biden has said that Israel Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu may be prolonging the Gaza conflict for political reasons, stating there is “every reason” to believe this is the case.

    The comments came in an interview with Time magazine, leading to a sharp rebuttal from the Israeli government, which accused Biden of breaching diplomatic norms.

    Netanyahu’s approval ratings have plummeted since the Hamas attack on October 7, which highlighted significant security lapses.

    Read Also: Lagos ends discounted transport fare

    Political analysts widely agree that Netanyahu would likely lose an election held now and face court proceedings on corruption charges. Elections have been delayed until the war ends or major military operations are deemed complete.

    When Time asked Biden if Netanyahu was extending the war for political survival, Biden replied: “I’m not going to comment on that,” but noted, “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion.”

    He also discussed the political challenges Netanyahu faced before the war.

    The U.S national security council spokesperson, John Kirby said Biden’s remarks reflected what many critics have claimed and left further comments to Netanyahu.

  • ECOWAS harmonising framework, policy for standby force

    ECOWAS harmonising framework, policy for standby force

    The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) says it is working to harmonise the framework and policy documents for managing logistics for its Standby Force (ESF).

    ECOWAS said this force serves as a last resort, to be used if diplomatic efforts fail.

    ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, announced this initiative during a four-day workshop in Kano yesterday, aimed at reviewing the pertinent documents.

    Represented by Dr. Cyriaque Agnekethom, Director of Peacekeeping and Regional Security, Musah explained that the documents outline the logistics requirements for Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), ECOWAS, and other partners.

    He explained that the workshop’s goal is to review and harmonise these documents to address contemporary security challenges.

    Musah recalled that a consultant was hired in 2019 to develop policies and guiding documents for managing ECOWAS Logistics Depots (ELDs). The ESF logistics concept, established in 2005, provides a coordination platform for logistics support and procedures for the Standby Force.

    These documents, reviewed in internal expert workshops, are now ready for independent expert validation.

    Read Also: NDLEA intercepts codeine syrup, Loud consignments worth over N2.1billion in Lagos, Port Harcourt

    “The documents are expected to be comprehensive enough to address contemporary challenges and align with international best practices,” Musah stated.

    The logistics concept offers a conceptual understanding of sustained operations, considering the evolving dynamics of the contemporary security environment and peace support in the region. This underscores the need to adapt the original ESF logistics concept to new realities.

    To ensure efficient ESF deployment, ECOWAS has established a Multidimensional Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, and a Humanitarian Logistics Depot in Senou, Mali.

    Acting Head of ECOWAS Peace Support Operations, Dr. Sani Adamu, highlighted the challenges faced in peacekeeping operations over the years. This prompted ECOWAS to create an effective framework to enhance the ESF’s deployment capacity.

    The workshop’s overall objective is to review and harmonise policies in accordance with UN and AU standards. Participants will evaluate the logistics concept, existing statutes, policies, and other strategic instruments related to the ESF’s role in conflict prevention and management.

    One of the participant, Francis Babatunde commented that the reviewed documents would significantly enhance the ESF’s deployment capacity, contributing to a stronger regional security framework.

  • Tinubu congratulates Modi on election victory

    Tinubu congratulates Modi on election victory

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on his historic re-election victory, marking Modi’s third consecutive term in office.

    In a statement yesterday by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu commended Modi for his outstanding leadership.

    He described the election results as strongly endorsing Modi’s vision and governance of the world’s largest democracy.

    The congratulatory message comes as Modi’s National Democratic Alliance secured the most parliamentary seats, a feat only previously achieved by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

    Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with India, emphasizing the importance of advancing shared goals and values as strategic partners in the global community.

    “President Bola Tinubu extends his warm congratulations to the Prime Minister of India, His Excellency, Narendra Modi, on his momentous victory in the parliamentary elections.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s first year anniversary: Third Mainland Bridge as metaphor for transformation

    “Prime Minister Modi’s coalition, the National Democratic Alliance, won a majority of the parliamentary seats, paving the way for a third consecutive term. This rare achievement marks the second time an Indian leader has retained power for a third term, following Jawaharlal Nehru.

    “The President stated that the election outcome is a resounding affirmation of Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional leadership of the world’s largest democracy.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, President Tinubu congratulates the people of India and assures them of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening relations and advancing shared goals and values as strategic partners in the league of Nations,” the statement said.

  • Nigeria to participate in world Junkanoo culture festival in Canada

    Nigeria to participate in world Junkanoo culture festival in Canada

    Nigeria will participate in this year’s World Junkanoo Festival for Tourism and Culture in Vaughan City, Canada scheduled for July 4th to 8th this year.

    Nigeria’s Country Representative for the World Junkanoo Festival for Tourism and Culture (WJFTC) and the World Carnival Commission (WCC) based in Ontario, Canada, Ambassador Felix Ihonre, highlighted the investment opportunities the festival will open for Nigerians abroad.

    Ihonre said the festival will bring together cultural and tourism leaders from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Afro-diaspora, fostering cultural exchange, learning, and celebration.

    “Nigeria is excited to announce her participation in the upcoming World Junkanoo Festival for Tourism and Culture in Vaughan City, Canada, from July 4th to 8th, 2024.

    Read Also: How to bridge Nigeria’s electricity gap, by Schneider Electric

    “This festival provides an excellent platform for Nigeria to showcase her rich cultural heritage and tourism potential to a global audience through various expressions, including music, dance, choreography, masquerade exhibitions, art, and fashion,” Ihonre stated

    He emphasised the importance of sharing Nigeria’s cultural heritage with the next generation, especially Africans in the diaspora, marking over 400 years of cultural milestones.

    “The festival will also present significant investment opportunities for Nigerians and Africans abroad. By having our pavilion and showcasing Nigerian cultural heritage, we aim to attract investors to various sectors of Nigeria’s economy, including culture, tourism, and sports,”

    He also acknowledged the support from President Bola Tinubu’s administration and traditional rulers in revitalizing cultural reintegration both nationally and internationally.

    “This consistent support across all levels of government has significantly impacted our tourism industry and cultural values, locally and globally,” Ihonre noted.

    The festival anticipates the presence and participation of esteemed cultural heritage custodians, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba of Benin, Obong of Calabar, and the Supreme traditional rulers Council of Akwa Ibom and Mbale of Abia from Nigeria.