#Culturalties

[thxnews]

UK-Canada Collaboration: Minister Rutley Boosts Global Ties

As the winds of global change gather pace, the United Kingdom's Americas Minister, David Rutley, embarks on a strategic visit to Ontario and Alberta. This mission, aimed at bolstering the already strong ties between the UK and Canada, serves as a testament to the enduring partnership ready to confront the pressing challenges facing our world today.  

Deepening Ties, Broadening Horizons

A Meeting of Minds and Missions David Rutley's journey to the heart of Canada—spanning the vibrant cities of Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton—is more than a diplomatic courtesy. It's a clarion call to action. Amidst discussions with provincial and city leaders, the spotlight turns to the UK and Canada's shared dedication to upholding global peace, combating climate change, and ensuring the resilience of international supply chains.   Trade and Partnership: A $45 Billion Beacon The economic undercurrent of this visit cannot be overstated. With a trade partnership nearing the CA$45 billion mark annually, the dialogue between Rutley and Canadian officials seeks not only to sustain but also to amplify this economic synergy. The UK's entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) heralds new vistas for trade, promising to enrich this bilateral relationship further.   United in Defence and Values In Edmonton, Rutley's itinerary includes a poignant reminder of the UK-Canada defence partnership's might. By visiting UK military personnel integrated within Canadian forces, the Minister underscores the allied support for Ukraine and the joint training initiatives for Ukrainian troops—a testament to shared values and mutual commitment to global stability.   Catalyzing Green Innovation and Critical Minerals Cooperation Ontario's Premier Doug Ford stands as a key interlocutor in discussions on critical minerals and clean energy technology. These talks highlight the UK and Canada's resolve to pioneer sustainable solutions and green innovations, essential for a climate-resilient future.  

Cultural and Sporting Ties

Beyond the boardrooms and diplomatic discussions, Rutley's visit also shines a light on the rich tapestry of cultural and sporting connections binding the UK and Canada. From promoting joint ventures to celebrating Toronto's role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, these engagements underline the multifaceted nature of this enduring partnership.   In Closing David Rutley's timely visit embodies the UK's commitment to reinforcing its alliance with Canada—a beacon of collaboration in these turbulent times. As they navigate through discussions on defence, trade, environmental stewardship, and cultural exchange, the message is clear: together, the UK and Canada are not only poised to face global challenges but to overcome them, setting a precedent for international cooperation and mutual prosperity.   Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & David Rutley MP. Read the full article

[phonemantra-blog]

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has officially launched its highly anticipated service between Abu Dhabi and Boston. This exciting new route strengthens ties between the two vibrant cities, offering passengers a world-class travel experience and unlocking a wealth of cultural and historical exploration opportunities. Celebrating a New Era of Connectivity: Inaugural Flight Takes Off On Sunday, Etihad's inaugural flight, EY147, touched down for the first time in Boston, marking a momentous occasion. Passengers witnessed joyous celebrations at both Abu Dhabi Airport before departure and upon arrival in Massachusetts. Etihad's esteemed captains waved UAE and US flags from the cockpit, symbolizing the start of the carrier's fourth non-stop service to the United States. Etihad Airways Takes Flight A Seamless Travel Experience Awaits The new service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, utilizing a state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. This modern aircraft boasts Etihad's acclaimed Business Studios, offering luxurious comfort and unparalleled service for discerning travelers. In addition, Economy Smart seats provide exceptional value, featuring top-notch amenities like: In-flight entertainment systems: Stay entertained throughout your journey with a vast selection of movies, TV shows, games, and music. In-seat power: Keep your devices charged and stay connected during your entire flight. In-flight Wi-Fi connectivity: Stay productive or connected with loved ones by accessing Wi-Fi services onboard. This combination of modern amenities, world-class service, and Etihad's renowned hospitality ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all passengers. Etihad's CEO Expresses Excitement About the New Route Etihad's Chief Executive Officer, Antonoaldo Neves, enthusiastically stated, "We are thrilled to inaugurate flights to Boston, further extending our reach across the United States and enhancing connectivity for travelers." Mr. Neves further elaborated on the significance of this new route: Expanding Horizons: This route broadens Etihad's US network, offering travelers convenient access to both the allure of Abu Dhabi and Dubai from the American Northeast. Exceptional Travel Experiences: Etihad remains committed to exceeding passenger expectations by providing exceptional travel experiences and fostering global connections. Strategic Connections: The new route caters to both business and leisure travelers, offering convenient connections to Etihad's expanding network across the Middle East and 11 routes throughout India. Welcoming Etihad to Boston Ed Freni, Massport Interim CEO and Aviation Director, expressed his delight at welcoming Etihad Airways to Boston Logan International Airport. He emphasized the importance of this new route as it provides: Key Connection: This route establishes a vital link between Boston and the UAE, offering New Englanders a wider range of travel options when planning trips to the Middle East and beyond. Enhanced Accessibility: This new flight enhances traveler options, making it easier to reach exciting destinations in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Unveiling the Cultural Tapestry of Boston Beyond convenience and connectivity, this new route opens doors to a vibrant cultural exchange. Boston, renowned for its rich history, diverse culinary scene, and charming neighborhoods, offers an enriching experience for Abu Dhabi residents seeking cultural immersion. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, indulge in culinary delights, and experience the warm hospitality of Boston's residents. Strengthening Ties Beyond Travel The addition of Boston to Etihad's network goes beyond just offering a new travel option. It signifies the profound cultural and educational ties that connect Abu Dhabi and Boston. Generations of Emiratis hold Boston in high regard, with many having pursued their education at its prestigious universities. Furthermore, significant investments in the healthcare and education sectors have fostered enduring collaborations, driving progress and innovation in both regions. This new route further strengthens these ties and promotes continued cultural exchange. Partnering for Seamless Travel Across North America Etihad's strategic partnership with JetBlue ensures convenient connections to numerous cities across North America. This collaboration unlocks a world of possibilities for travelers seeking to explore various destinations beyond Boston on the North American continent.

[tmarshconnors]

🇦🇺 Happy Australia Day 2024! 🇦🇺

On this Australia Day, I raise a toast to the land Down Under, a part of the Commonwealth family that holds a special place in the hearts of us loyalists to the Crown! 🌏👑

As we celebrate the unique spirit of Australia, I can't help but appreciate the deep historical ties that bind our two nations. From the First Fleet's arrival to the present day, the journey of Australia reflects the enduring connection to the British monarchy.

Cheers to the resilient Aussie spirit that has flourished under the Southern Cross! 🍻🐨 Today, I tip my hat to the diverse landscapes, the iconic wildlife, and the mateship that defines this great nation. May the Southern Hemisphere continue to thrive, flourishing with the warmth of the sun and the pride of its people.

On this special day, let's celebrate the shared values that unite us – a love for freedom, democracy, and a fair go for all. From the bustling cities to the vast Outback, Australia's story is interwoven with the rich tapestry of its British colonial history.

To our mates in the Land of Oz, Happy Australia Day! 🎉🇦🇺 May the ties between our nations remain unbreakable, and may the Southern Cross forever shine brightly in the night sky. Long live the Commonwealth, long live the enduring friendship between Britain and Australia! 🤝🇬🇧🇦🇺

[culinarygenes]

🌍 Embracing Culture & Culinary Traditions: The Heart of Culinary Genes 🍝

For us at Culinary Genes, culture and culinary traditions are not just elements; they're our heartbeat, our connection to the past, and our guide to the future. 🙌🏼

As an Italian immigrant, I was fortunate to be steeped in the rich tapestry of family, food, and faith from the start. Our kitchen is a living testament to the beautiful journey from Italy to our hearts today. Each dish, a piece of our heritage, passed down through generations, preserving the magic of time-honored recipes.

It's more than food; it's a way of life. Our family bonds are reinforced around the table, where laughter, love, and stories flow as freely as the wine. Our culture shapes us, and our traditions keep us grounded.

At Culinary Genes, we believe that sharing these traditions is sharing our souls. Join us on this journey where every bite carries history, and every dish carries love. 🌿❤️

What's your favorite family tradition that keeps your culture alive? Share below and let's celebrate the beauty of heritage together! 👇🏼✨

👉 Learn More

[parkshala]

Strengthening academics, culture, and friendship between the two countries!

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#EducationMatters #InspiringYouth #EmpowermentThroughEducation #CreatingOpportunities #teachthemyoung #breakthebarriers #parkshala #ngo #ngoindia #positivenews #newsoftheday #FranceSchengenVisa #AcademicExcellence #CulturalTies

[skyroadluchini]

Still on the search to discover my tribe!

[newyorkprelawland-blog]

Soccer, Intellectual Property, And Geopolitics

By Dylan Ollivier, Columbia University Class of 2022

July 23, 2020

Another day in the northeastern English town of Newcastle is another anxious day for fervent supporters of local club Newcastle United.Soccer is the hope of the city, but in this rainy town, despair has been the name of the game for15 years. The historic club and ex-European soccer powerhouse has been mediocre at best, pathetically sinking to the depths of the English Premier League (the English national soccer league).

This could all change. A consortium led by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the national Saudi wealth fund, submitted a $300 million offer to the Premier League to acquire the club, promising to bring back glory to the Northeast of England. [10]

Set to bring more money, more competition, more fans, the Saudi foreign investment is delighting news to the Premier League which must first approve the buyout, a process that usually takes less than a month.[10]

But the approval process,which has put into question British and international law, is soon to begin its fourth month.

The main roadblock:The World Trade Organization. For the past year and a half, this respected international governing body has been investigating a case of intellectual property theft against Saudi Arabia, the prospective owners of the club; the WTO has been looking into the Saudi government’s role in a pirating scheme that saw the illegal redistribution of dozens of sports leagues,including the Premier League, by pirating company beoutQ to millions of households in the Middle East and in North Africa.[1]

The Premier League is not the only loser in this scheme; beoutQ specifically targeted Qatari media company beIN Media. BeIN Media group owns the TV rights of many European soccer leagues in dozens of countries across the globe. In fact, the Qatar-based corporation is the Premier League’s largest overseas broadcast partner with a deal worth $617 million, twice as much as PIF’s offer for Newcastle. [2]

When beoutQ pirated and rediffused beIN content to millions of people who did not pay a dime for the service, beIN and the Premier League lost millions of dollars of rightful profits. Naturally, the two sought to press charges. Cases of intellectual property theft are normally adjudicated in the domestic country where the unlawful action is occurring. But when they sought to press charges in Saudi courts, Saudi Arabia denied the proceedings… nine different times.[1]

Since legal action in the host country proved to be unfeasible, the case had to be brought to the World Trade Organization. But as an intergovernmental organization, the WTO can only settle disputes between governments, not corporations. [1] Enters Saudi Arabia’s tiny neighbor: Qatar.BeIN Media Group has intimate ties with the Qatari government; its chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi is a close friend of the royal al-Thani family. Moreover, beIN Media Group is a subsidiary of Al Jazeera Network, a Qatari state-owned media group.[12]

BeIN Media Group, though only 6 years old, has already spread its operations to 43 countries.[12] Two years before launching BeIN Media Group, the Qatari ownership bought out relatively anonymous Paris-based club Paris Saint-Germain, splashed unprecedented amounts of money and turned the club into the most controversial powerhouse of European soccer. These days, omnipresent names in soccer like Neymar, Ibrahimović, and Mbappe are tightly linked with Qatar. The country’s rising influence in the soccer world granted it a successful bid to organize the largest and most high-profile sports competition in the world, the 2022 World Cup.With its brand new mediatic and sports influence,Qatar has never been so important in the world.

But that is all new. A neighbor of Saudi Arabia, since its 1971 independence Qatar has existed in the shadow of its bigger brother.Saudi Arabia, thanks to its prominent rivalry with Iran and its partnership with the United States,wrote the greater part of late 20th century Middle East history. Meanwhile, Qatar, a Saudi vassal state, sat on the sidelines and provided moral supportto its bigger brother. [13]

But when Hamad bin Khalifa rose to the Qatari thrown in 1995, he adjudged that Qatar had become wealthy enough from oil money to move away from Saudi heterogeneity.[11] While Qatar had previously unconditionally supported Saudi military intervention,backing Saudi troops in the 1991 Gulf War, the small country began looking to other bigger international partners; to the dismay of Saudi Arabia,Qatar cooperated militarily with the United States in the Iraq war in 2003, and has since let its Al-Udeid base be a centerfor US military operations.[5] [7] Qatar also improved its relations with Saudi’s bitter rival Iran.[13]

Qatari scheming was all a headache for Saudi Arabia and other gulf countries. Through attempted coups and other illegal schemes, Saudi Arabia vainly tried to overturn Qatari belligerence for the first decade of the 21st century. [8]

But the headache turned into a migraine when the Arab Spring began sweeping through the Middle East and Northern Africa region in late 2010.From Libya to Bahrain, oppressive authoritarian regimes that had been in power for decades were overthrown. A demand for freedom was ragefully pressing.With its neighboring repressive friends violently overthrown, the Saudi monarchic regime,one of the most repressive regimes in the world,was under imminent threat.

Meanwhile,Qatar was militarily and financially supporting insurgency throughout the region, facilitating respite in Libya and Syria among many other countries. Qatari media company Al Jazeera provided crucial reporting that gave unprecedented information flow in the region and facilitated protests in a way never seen before. [9]Qatar increased its influence in the region, continuing its plan to expand its role in global affairs, and simultaneously threatening Saudi security.

The Saudi regime survived. But the previously close Saudi-Qatari relationship turned into a bitter rivalry.Both countries vied for their own power and influence in the world and in the region.In 2017, Saudi Arabia led a coalition of gulf and African states to break diplomatic contact with and begin an economic blockade of Qatar, in an attempt to suffocate the tiny country.[6] Saudi Arabia and Qatar may not be at war, but only the weapons are missing.

As Qatar continues to try to forge its own path, to rise out of the Saudi shadow, sports have become central to its growing political and economic power. Its access to European soccer and influential celebrities thanks to PSG, its thrusting into the spotlight thanks to its organization of the World Cup and its mediatic influence in dozens of countries thanks to be IN has created crucial economicand culturalties with the rest of the world.Qatar’s strategy to gain global influence and to become a region a land even global power has worked.

Responding to Qatar’s rise in global influence, Saudi Arabia has begun mounting a new strategy to vie for influence. Its Vision 2030 is an extravagantly ambitious project to shift the Saudi economy away from oil into sports and tourism (which is currently in existent in the country), and to drive foreign investment into a country that has seen little due to its authoritarian nature. [3] The Newcastle buyout is at the heart of it; the oil giant would get access to the Premier League audience of 4.7 billion people: the largest sports audience in the world.[4]

But back at the headquarters of the WTO, after a year and a half of investigation, the intergovernmental organization finally gave its verdict on June 16, 2020. The ruling favored Qatar and berated Saudi Arabia.The WTO found unfaltering evidence that the Saudi government belligerently masterminded beoutQ piracy. Moreover, the ruling also established that Saudi Arabia was in violation of international law by violating the Trade-related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement for refusing to take criminal action against beoutQ on Saudi territory.[1]

Saudi theft of intellectual property is a pernicious attempt to fight Qatar’s rising influence.Now that the oil giant has been reprimanded by international law,Saudi Arabia’s image worldwide is set to take a hit. With Saudi and Qatari interests more than ever at odds, the Premier League may have to pick between two oil giants. At the same time, it may be unable to; a denial of the Saudi buyout may be considered discriminatory under British law. [10]

But whether the Newcastle deal falls through, tensions will rise.A buyout of Newcastle United is Saudi Arabia trying to beat Qatar at its own game, to fight a war with its neighbor on a rainy Thursday night in Newcastle rather than on its desert Middle East border.English soccer is set to change. Middle East politics will too. The WTO ruling is at the heart of it.

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[1] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/06/wto-verdict-summary-saudi-piracy-operation-beoutq-200616102827192.html

[2] https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200608-saudi-takeover-of-newcastle-united-hinges-on-lifting-blockade-on-qatar/

[3] https://www.nsenergybusiness.com/features/saudi-aramco-vision-2030/

[4] https://www.nsenergybusiness.com/features/saudi-arabia-newcastle-united-oil-future/

[5] https://www.state.gov/u-s-relations-with-qatar/

[6] https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2017/06/qatar-gulf-crisis-questions-answered-170606103033599.html

[7] https://www.theguardian.com/world/2002/mar/27/iraq.julianborger

[8] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2018/03/al-jazeera-reveals-details-1996-coup-attempt-qatar-180304200532130.html

[9] https://www.reuters.com/article/us-qatar-jazeera-media/defiant-al-jazeera-faces-conservative-backlash-after-arab-spring-idUSKBN0F70F120140702

[10] https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-marcottis-musings/story/4125992/newcastle-united-sale-to-saudi-arabia-led-consortium-why-the-stakes-are-so-high

[11] https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/emir-of-qatar-profile-who-is-sheikh-hamad-bin-khalifa-al-thani-how-did-he-turn-qatar-into-the-world-8672997.html

[12] https://www.beinmediagroup.com/the-group/

[13] https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/13/world/middleeast/how-the-saudi-qatar-rivalry-now-combusting-reshaped-the-middle-east.html

[tdshay]

International Flag For Palestine !! Like every place on Earth, the Palestinian people are diverse; some love Brizil for football, some love Turkey for its stance for Palestine, others like Spain for its culturalties with Arabs and ev… Source: International Flag For Palestine !!

[pencil2write4palestian2bheard]

International Flag For Palestine !!

International Flag For Palestine !!

Like every place on Earth, the Palestinian people are diverse; some love Brizil for football, some love Turkey for its stance for Palestine, others like Spain for its culturalties with Arabs and even some might love the US for having friends or relatives living here. As Music is a univeral langage and love unites souls regardless of their culture, religion, race or national identity, holding…