Author: INF365

The Maldives welcomed over 2 million tourists in 2024, achieving a record-breaking recovery from the pandemic. Strategic marketing, partnerships, and improved connectivity with India and China have attracted diverse travelers. Infrastructure upgrades, like Hanimaadhoo Airport expansion, boost capacity and promote lesser-known regions. New offerings like wellness retreats and eco-tourism broaden the Maldives’ global appeal. The Maldives’ tourism industry has reached new heights in 2024, marking a full recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. In December, the nation welcomed its 2 millionth tourist, a milestone that underscores its position as a top global travel destination. Strategic investments and innovative initiatives have fueled…

As the clock reset to 2025, the world paused to reflect on the challenges that defined the past year. Climate disasters, political unrest, economic inequality, and societal divides continue to dominate global concerns. These pressing issues demand immediate action, not mere rhetoric. This year’s mission is straightforward: to rebuild the world we have, turning aspirations into concrete progress. The global mantra for 2025 resonates with urgency and hope: “We can’t build a dream world, but we can rebuild our real world.” Each continent faces unique challenges, but their resolutions reflect resilience, determination, and a commitment to meaningful action. Asia: Progress…

India’s former prime minister, Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the US, has died at the age of 92. Manmohan Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late on Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. It added that he was “being treated for age-related medical conditions.” A mild-mannered technocrat, Manmohan Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers, holding the position for 10 years. He was chosen to fill…

U.S. President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates, replacing their death penalties with life imprisonment without parole. This historic decision, announced Wednesday, spares inmates convicted of heinous crimes but excludes three high-profile cases involving acts of terrorism and hate crimes. Biden emphasized his longstanding opposition to capital punishment, stating, “I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level.” However, his measure does not extend to over 2,000 inmates sentenced to death under state jurisdictions. The move comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump,…

Bangladesh has formally sought India’s assistance in extraditing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to face charges of crimes against humanity. This request, which was confirmed during a Monday press briefing by Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Tawhid Hossain, follows a diplomatic Note Verbale sent to India. Speaking at the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Day 2024 event, Home Affairs Advisor Lt. General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury added, “The Ministry of Home Affairs initiated the extradition request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We already have an extradition treaty with India.” Allegations and Legal Proceedings Sheikh Hasina’s downfall in 2024 was precipitated…

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, recently dismissed concerns over a potential rise in Islamic extremism. He reassured that fears were misplaced and highlighted the secular, progressive outlook of Bangladesh’s youth. In an interview with The Economist on December 20, 2024, Dr. Yunus emphasized the pivotal role of young people in shaping a modern, inclusive nation. He expressed confidence in their ability to steer the country towards a brighter future. Bangladesh’s Recognition as Country of the Year 2024 This interview coincided with Bangladesh’s recognition as The Economist’s 2024 Country of the Year. Unlike other accolades based on…

Trump to EU: Boost U.S. Energy Imports or Face Tariffs President-elect Donald Trump has issued a sharp ultimatum to the European Union, demanding increased imports of U.S. oil and gas. The move aims to address a $208.7 billion trade deficit in goods between the two economies. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “I told the European Union they must make up their tremendous deficit with the United States by buying large amounts of our oil and gas. Otherwise, it is TARIFFS all the way!” EU’s Response to Trump’s Demands The European Commission responded cautiously to Trump’s statement. A…

The tragic murder of UnitedHealthcare (UHC) CEO Brian Thompson has sent shockwaves through the nation, reigniting a long-standing debate on the U.S. health care system. This event highlights the deep-seated public frustration with a system that prioritizes profit over patient care. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing discontent with a health care model that is both the most expensive in the world and failing to provide affordable, accessible care for all. Although investigations into Thompson’s death are still underway, initial reports suggest that it may be connected to widespread disillusionment with the U.S. health care system.…

In a landmark decision, a U.S. court has held Israel’s NSO Group accountable for its controversial Pegasus spyware. The case was filed by Meta-owned WhatsApp, which accused NSO Group of targeting the devices of 1,400 users. Judge Phyllis Hamilton ruled that the company violated both the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) and California’s Computer Data Access and Fraud Act (CDAFA). This ruling marks the first time NSO Group has been held liable in an American court. It sets a critical precedent in addressing spyware misuse in international cybersecurity law. The Pegasus Surveillance Tool Pegasus is a powerful surveillance tool.…

Today, Bangladesh celebrates its 54th Victory Day, a momentous occasion marking its hard-fought independence from Pakistan in 1971. This year’s commemoration carries profound significance, arriving in the wake of a seismic political transformation. Just months ago, Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year tenure as Prime Minister came to an abrupt end after a massive, nationwide movement demanded accountability, democratic reform, and justice. Her ousting has ignited fresh hope for a nation long caught between aspirations for freedom and the constraints of authoritarian governance. Victory Day 2024 is not just a reflection on past triumphs but a pivotal moment for charting a democratic future.…