The Nation Newspaper

Category: Foreign

  • Taiwan president pledges shared values with Nigeria, allies, says envoy

    Taiwan president pledges shared values with Nigeria, allies, says envoy

    Representative and Head of Mission of Taiwan in Nigeria Andy Yih-Ping Liu has emphasised that with the inauguration of Dr. Lai Ching-te as the eighth president of Taiwan, the country has once again showcased its steadfast commitment to the core values of freedom and constitutional fulfilment

    According to him, Taiwan will continue to collaborate with Nigeria, one of the major friendly democratic nations and other allies to form a value-sharing community

    Lai took over from Dr. Tsai Ing-wen after serving as her vice president for the past four years. Lai and his running mate, Hsiao Bi-khim, won the 2024 presidential election with 5.58 million votes, breaking the tradition of two-term political party rotation with the Kuomintang (KMT).

    This marks the Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) third consecutive term in office since the first direct presidential election in 1996.

    Liu, in a statement yesterday, said, with like-minded fellow democracies, like Nigeria, Taiwan has once again showcased its steadfast commitment to the core values of freedom and constitutional fulfilment.

    He noted that in his inauguration speech, Lai called on China to stop its military intimidation of Taiwan and engage in talks with his government on equal terms.

    Liu added that the new president also urged China to work together with Taiwan to maintain peace and stability in the region and ensure a world free from the fear of war.

    The envoy said: “He emphasised that democracy, peace, and prosperity are at the core of Taiwan’s national roadmap, and highlighted Taiwan’s role as an important link in the global chain of democracies, while expressing his commitment to enhancing human rights and promoting democratic values on a global scale.

    Read Also: Army probes attacks on soldiers at Abuja Banex plaza

    “We see our Taiwan as a crucial link in the chain of democracies worldwide, and our leader has emphasized that a new era of democracy in Taiwan has dawned, showcasing the country’s commitment to human rights and its core values of democracy and freedom. Taiwan has consistently ranked highly among Asian nations in terms of democracy and freedom, making it a shining example on the global stage. The leader, therefore, highlighted Taiwan’s role as a beacon of democracy and stressed the importance of continuing to uphold these values.

    “In the realm of international affairs, Taiwan will continue to collaborate with Nigeria, one of the major friendly democratic nations to form a value-sharing community.

    “President Lai said: “We will work together to combat disinformation, strengthen democratic resilience, address challenges, and allow Taiwan to become the MVP of the democratic world,” and he pledged his government’s desire to uphold four commitments: “neither yield nor provoke, and maintain the status quo”, but ensuring that the future of Taiwan will be decided by its 23 million people. By working together with like-minded nations, Taiwan aims to overcome challenges and solidify its position as a key player in the democratic world.”

  • One dead, several injured after Singapore Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Bangkok

    One dead, several injured after Singapore Airlines flight makes emergency landing in Bangkok

    One person has died and others have been injured during severe turbulence on a plane from London to Singapore – with passengers saying people were “launched into the ceiling”.

    Singapore Airlines flight SQ321 from Heathrow was forced to make an emergency landing in Bangkok.

    “We can confirm that there are injuries and one fatality on board the Boeing 777-300ER. There were a total of 211 passengers and 18 crew on board,” a statement said.

    “Singapore Airlines offers its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.”

    The aircraft took off at 10.38pm UK time on Monday but had to divert to the Thai capital, landing at 3.45pm local time on Tuesday (9.45am UK time).

    It was cruising at 37,000ft (11,280m) before dropping 6,000ft (1,830m) in around three minutes, according to flight tracking data.

    Passenger Dzafran Azmir, 28, told Reuters news agency: “Suddenly the aircraft starts tilting up and there was shaking so I started bracing for what was happening, and very suddenly there was a very dramatic drop so everyone seated and not wearing seatbelt was launched immediately into the ceiling.”

    He added: “Some people hit their heads on the baggage cabins overhead and dented it, they hit the places where lights and masks are and broke straight through it.”

    Social media video showed ambulances lined up at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport.

    Sky’s Asia correspondent Cordelia Lynch, at the airport, said it’s believed as many as 30 people were injured – with local media reporting two people may have died.

    Read Also: Singapore Airlines catches fire after emergency landing

    “There’s some suggestion the flight hit an air pocket before it had to make this emergency landing,” she said.

    “There are some images circulating on social media that show parts of the plane inside and a lot of scattered debris.”

    Singapore Airlines said it was working with Thai authorities “to provide the necessary medical assistance” and sending a team to Bangkok to provide extra help.

    “Our priority is to provide all possible assistance to all passengers and crew on board the aircraft”, it added.

  • JUST IN: Syria first lady Asma al-Assad diagnosed with leukemia

    JUST IN: Syria first lady Asma al-Assad diagnosed with leukemia

    Syrian first lady Asma al-Assad has been diagnosed with leukemia, the office of President Bashar al-Assad announced Tuesday.

    The president’s wife was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia “after presenting with several symptoms and following a comprehensive series of medical tests and examinations,” the statement said.

    She will “adhere to a specialised treatment protocol that includes stringent infection prevention measures” and “will temporarily withdraw from all direct engagements” as part of the treatment plan, it added.

    Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive cancer of the bone marrow and the blood.

    Asma al-Assad has previously been treated for breast cancer. In August 2019, she announced that she was “completely” free of the disease a year after her diagnosis.

    Born and raised in the United Kingdom, although her family is originally from central Syria, the first lady is a powerful and divisive figure. She is under western sanctions and has been a highly controversial figure in the course of the 13-year Syrian conflict.

    She was an investment banker before quitting to marry the then-newly minted President Bashar al-Assad, in 2000. She has since maintained a public role, promoting civil and charity groups, but has been accused of using her British education and Western style to try to mask the brutality of her husband’s crackdown on dissent.

    Read Also: Israel’s strikes on Gaza, Syria, Lebanon,West Bank threaten to spark wider conflict

    The war, which has killed over half a million people and displaced half the country’s pre-war population of of 23 million, began as peaceful protests against Assad’s regime in March 2011.

    The protests were met by a brutal crackdown, and the revolt quickly spiraled into a full-blown civil war which has seen the intervention of foreign armies and militant groups.

    The announcement of Assad’s diagnosis came as her influential NGO, the Syrian Trust for Development, was putting on its annual Damascene Rose Festival celebrating the rose harvest season.

    Prior to the announcement of that she would be withdrawing from public events, the first lady had been widely expected to attend the festivities.

    NEWSNOW

  • Nigeria-Taiwan strengthens trade ties

    Nigeria-Taiwan strengthens trade ties

    NINE Taiwanese companies and Nigerian business men gathered at the Taiwan Business Forum recently hosted in Nigeria to collaborate on new opportunities

    It was the 2024 edition of the Taiwan Trade Business Forum, organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), concluded recently at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria. The forum aimed to enhance bilateral trade ties between Taiwan and Nigeria and explore new business opportunities.

    The forum attracted a prominent audience, including His Excellency Andy Yih-Ping Liu, Taiwanese Ambassador to Nigeria; representatives from Taiwan Trade Centre Lagos, the overseas branch of TAITRA; Olusola Obadimu, Director-General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA); Collins Nwosu, Trade Ambassador, International Trade Facilitation Association (ITFA); esteemed Nigerian dignitaries; and members of the press.

    This gathering facilitated a platform for Taiwanese companies to showcase their products and expertise. Informative presentations and discussions sparked valuable dialogue, while productive networking sessions fostered potential partnerships and collaborations.

    Taiwan is a powerhouse in the global manufacturing sector, recognized as the world’s 17th largest exporter and importer of merchandise, according to the World Trade Organization in 2022. This leading position is attributed to a strong focus on innovation and technological advancement, particularly in the fields of information and communication technology (ICT).

    The Taiwan Business Forum in Lagos exemplifies Taiwan’s dedication to expanding its global reach and ensuring continued visibility for its top-tier exporters.

    In his opening remarks, Cris Lin, a representative from TAITRA, spoke on the importance of building closer trade ties between Taiwan and Nigeria. “The main point of promoting trade between Nigeria and Taiwan is to bring awareness of Taiwanese products to Nigerian consumers. Our products are known for striking a perfect balance between a reasonable price and excellent quality, which Nigerian consumers prefer,” he stated.

    Read Also: Robust justice system key to economic growth, says Pedro

    His Excellency Andy Yih-Ping Liu, the Taiwanese Ambassador to Nigeria, further emphasized the significance of bilateral relations. “Taiwan’s population is roughly the size of Lagos State, but we lack the natural resources abundant in Nigeria. Conversely, Nigeria’s strength lies in its resources, while Taiwan’s advantage lies in its human capital. We believe a symbiotic relationship, combining our strengths, can lead to a powerful trade partnership,” he stated.

    Nine leading Taiwanese companies participated in the forum, including Well Electronics Co. Ltd, Lien Chiny Enterprise Co. Ltd, Easywell Water Systems Inc., Mobiletron Electronics Co. Ltd, Ou-Dean Foods Factory Co. Ltd, Yu Tong Steel Co. Ltd, Shuz Tung Machinery Industrial Co. Ltd, Globe Industries Corporation, and Voltronic Power Technology Corp. These companies are renowned for their high-quality products, cutting-edge technologies, and established reputations in the Taiwanese and international markets.

    Olusola Obadimu, Director-General of NACCIMA, commented on the benefits of working with Taiwanese companies. He said, “I have only good things to say about Taiwan, and I urge everyone here to see that working with Taiwanese companies will benefit us. We can’t lose, and you’re sure of the qualities you will get.”

    The forum showcased Taiwan’s excellence in technology and products, further demonstrating the strength and competitiveness of Taiwan’s manufacturing industry. The advanced technology and high-quality products offered by Taiwanese companies have the potential to support Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing development significantly. Through this strategic collaboration, Nigeria can leverage these advancements to propel its economic growth and solidify its position as a leading African economy.

  • US sports envoys ignite breakdancing enthusiasm in Nigeria

    US sports envoys ignite breakdancing enthusiasm in Nigeria

    Two celebrated American breakdance experts Macca Malik and Jacob “Kujo” Lyons visited Nigeria last week as part of the United States Department of State’s Sports Envoy Programme.

    The experts’ weeklong programme in Abuja and Lagos was organised with support from the US State Department’s Sports Diplomacy Division and the US Mission in Nigeria, in partnership with FAME Foundation, a non-profit led by Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, a US government exchange alumna.

    In Abuja, the US Sports Envoys engaged with the Nigerian Olympic Committee, highlighting breaking’s new global status as an Olympic sport, and offering world-class opportunities for Nigerian breakers.

    The US government’s commitment to Nigerian youth and inclusion was further demonstrated through their inspiring visit to the school for the deaf in Kuje, where they shared personal stories of dedication, leadership, and teamwork, empowering students to form a Breakdance Club and reinforcing the belief that “there is ability in disability.”

    The Envoys shared best practices for managing sports for people with disabilities. As part of their outreach, the Envoys led workshops and masterclasses at Krump Dance Studio, where breakers from Northern Nigeria gained valuable insights on preparing for Olympic competitions and mastering their techniques.

    In Lagos, the Sports Envoys conducted masterclasses at the Nation Dance Studio for emerging and established breakers and shared valuable tips on how to prepare for breaking competitions. They also participated in an American Spaces Employability Webinar and engaged with breaking enthusiasts gathered at the network of 27 American Spaces in Nigeria. During the webinar, the Envoys discussed how the participants can transform their passion for breaking and other artistic forms of expression into fulfilling careers and highlighted the role of sports in developing self-confidence, leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

    To conclude their visit to Nigeria, the US Sports envoys alongside their workshop participants showcased artistic brilliance through captivating public performances in Abuja and Lagos where audiences were treated to breathtaking choreography and compelling narratives.

    Acting US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Joseph Zadrozny noted that the Sports Envoy program was organized to promote cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and the enrichment of local communities through the universal language of dance and sports.

    “Our sports envoy programme has emerged as an integral part of efforts to build on the strong people-to-people connections between the United States and Nigeria,” Zadrozny said. “The lessons shared by our Sports Envoys – communication, teamwork, resilience, inclusion, and conflict resolution – are essential for leadership development, community building, equality, and peace.”

    The sports envoys’ passion for breaking and desire to share knowledge with emerging and established breakers, as well as their willingness to explore other cultures, resulted in tremendous appreciation from the Nigerian breaking community, sports, and cultural leaders.

  • Tinubu condoles with Iran over passing of President, others

    Tinubu condoles with Iran over passing of President, others

    President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran over the passing of President Ebrahim Raisi.

    This is contained in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, on Monday in Abuja.

    Raisi was killed along with Iranian foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials in a helicopter crash.

    The Presidential spokesman said Tinubu expressed grief over this tragedy, describing Raisi as a leader who was committed to the development of Iran.

    Ngelale said that while commiserating with the bereaved families, Tinubu prayed for the continuous peace, stability, and prosperity of the Iranian nation.

    “On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, the President assures the Islamic Republic of Nigeria’s support and prayers in this moment of grief,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Raisi died after a helicopter carrying him and other officials crashed in a mountainous and forested area of the country.

    The 63-year-old, a figure representing conservative and hardline factions in Iranian politics, was president for nearly three years.

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei announced five days of public mourning and confirmed Mohammad Mokhber as interim head of the country’s executive branch.

    Read Also: Iran VP Mohammad Mokhber to assume interim duties ahead election

    Iran now has a maximum period of 50 days before a presidential election must be held to choose Raisi’s successor.

    Those who died along with Raisi are Hossein Amirabdollahian, Iran’s foreign minister; and Malik Rahmati, governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province.

    Others are Ayatollah Mohammad Ali Al-Hashem, representative of the Iranian supreme leader to East Azerbaijan and Sardar Seyed Mehdi Mousavi, head of Raisi’s guard team.

    The crew that died in the crash are Col. Seyed Taher Mostafavi, pilot; Col. Mohsen Daryanush, co-pilot and Major Behrouz Ghadimi, flight technician.

    (NAN)

  • UNICEF rehabilitates medical centres in Libya’s floods-hit Derna

    UNICEF rehabilitates medical centres in Libya’s floods-hit Derna

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said it has rehabilitated four primary medical centres in the eastern Libyan city of Derna, which was hit by deadly floods in 2023.

    “UNICEF, in partnership with the International Medical Corps Libya, has completed the rehabilitation of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in four primary healthcare centres in Derna-Alfateeah, Albomba, Ras Alteen, and Lathron,” UNICEF said in a statement.

    The upgrades, including the installation of doors, windows, electrical works, and light rehabilitation, have restored and enhanced essential services that were previously non-functional, the statement said.

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    “Now, around 10,000 people, including 4,300 children, have access to improved facilities.

    “This ensures better health outcomes and increased wellbeing within the community,” the statement noted.

    In September 2023, Mediterranean storm Daniel triggered the largest and worst floods in Libya in decades.

    Thousands of people were killed and missing, mostly in Derna. (Xinhua/NAN) 

  • Anxiety over Iran’s president, others as helicopter ‘crashes’

    Anxiety over Iran’s president, others as helicopter ‘crashes’

    Iran is in turmoil as President Ebrahim Raisi remains missing following a helicopter crash in the East Azerbaijan province.

    The helicopter, which suffered a “hard landing,” was carrying several high-profile officials, including Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, East Azerbaijan Governor, Malik Rahmati, and the imam of Tabriz, Mohammed Ali Ale-Hashem.

    Before the incident occurred near Iran’s border with Azerbaijan, Raisi was seen staring out of the aircraft window, which led to an immediate and extensive rescue operation.

    Iran’s Interior Minister, Ahmad Vahidi, confirmed that multiple rescue teams have been dispatched to the area.

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     He said despite the deployment of at least 40 search teams on foot, including drones, the rescue efforts have been severely hampered by heavy fog and challenging weather conditions.

    Two other helicopters traveling with the convoy managed to land safely, adding to the confusion and hope surrounding the search for the missing helicopter.

    Conflicting reports emerged last night regarding the location and status of the helicopter, with initial sightings near the city of Jolfa and later reports placing the crash near Uzi and the mountainous Dizmar forest area.

     Vahidi said that the difficult terrain and poor visibility are making it challenging to establish contact with the crash site.

    “It’s a complicated area, and making contact is difficult. We are waiting for teams to reach the area for more information,” he said.

     Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called on Iranians to pray for the missing leaders.

    “Everyone should pray for the health of these people who are serving the Iranian nation. The nation doesn’t need to be worried or anxious as the administration of the country will not be disrupted at all,” Khamenei reassured in a post on X.

    An Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed grave concern over the situation, stating that the lives of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian were “in danger.”

    .

  • DR Congo army thwarts attempted coup

    DR Congo army thwarts attempted coup

    The Democratic Republic of Congo army says it has quashed an attempted coup against President Felix Tshisekedi in the capital Kinshasa involving Congolese and foreign fighters.

    DR Congo army spokesperson, Brig Gen Sylavin Ekenge said on the state-run broadcaster RTNC TV that several suspects have been detained and the “situation is now under control”.

    His statement comes hours after armed men attacked the house of Vital Kamerhe, the former Chief of Staff and close ally to President Tshisekedi early yesterday morning.

    Witnesses say a group of about 20 assailants in army uniform attacked the residence and an exchange of gunfire followed.

    Read Also: UN chief condemns attack on peace keepers in DR Congo

    Two guards and an assailant were killed in the attack on Kamerhe’s house, his spokesman and the Japanese ambassador said in posts on X.

     The men also occupied the Palais de la Nation, the office of the President of the Republic which is located in the city centre, a place highly secured by the Republican Guard.

     Japan’s ambassador in the Congolese capital has warned nationals not to go out.

    President Tshisekedi has not made any public comment on the situation so far.

     Local media reports said the assailants were members of the New Zaire Movement linked to formerly-exiled politician Christian Malanga.

     President Tshisekedi was re-elected for a second term in the disputed elections last year in December. He won about 78% of the vote.

    Nearly 20 people were killed in election-related violence in the run-up to the vote.

    Congo is a country with vast mineral wealth and a huge population, but despite this life has not improved for most people, with conflict, corruption and poor governance persisting.

  • Israeli minister vows to quit war cabinet if PM fails to agree new Gaza plan

    Israeli minister vows to quit war cabinet if PM fails to agree new Gaza plan

     The Israeli war cabinet Minister, Benny Gantz has threatened to resign if Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu fails to adopt an agreed plan for Gaza, calling into question the future of the Israeli government.

    During a press conference over the weekend, Gantz announced that if a plan for postwar governance of the territory is not consolidated and approved by 8 June, his opposition National Unity party will withdraw from the coalition government.

    The press conference came just hours after the Israel Defense Forces said it had recovered the body of another hostage, Ron Benjamin, 53, who had been taking part in a cycle ride near the border with Gaza when Hamas launched its bloody attack on 7 October.

     His body was found along with three other hostages Itzik Gelernter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila whose remains were recovered on Friday.

    Read Also: Iran’s response to Israeli aggression sparks fears of another war

    “Personal and political considerations have begun to enter the most sacred parts of Israel’s defence.

     “Prime Minister Netanyahu, I look you in the eye tonight and tell you: the choice is in your hands,” Gantz said.

     He added: “The Netanyahu of a decade ago would have done the right thing. Are you willing to do the right and patriotic thing today?

    “The people of Israel are watching you,” he added. “You must choose between Zionism and cynicism, between unity and factionalism, between responsibility and lawlessness, and between victory and disaster.”

     His departure would leave Netanyahu, even more beholden to far-right allies who have taken a hardline on negotiations over a ceasefire and hostage release.