PN Hosts EPP Group For European Committee Of Regions Conference

Dec 4 2024

The European People’s Party (EPP) hosted a seminar in Malta, organised by the EPP Group in the Committee of Regions (EPP-CoR), under the theme “Driving Sustainability Forward: Rethinking Transport and Tourism to Ensure Competitive Cities and Regions.” The event took place at Dar Ċentrali, with discussions focusing on sustainable transport and tourism development across Europe.

Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) leader Bernard Grech opened the seminar, highlighting the importance of sustainability in shaping Europe’s future. He stressed the need for policies that promote teleworking, reduce congestion and emissions, and support environmentally-friendly transport infrastructure. Grech also called for tourism models that respect local communities and the environment.

Keynote speaker Olgierd Geblewicz, President of the EPP-CoR Group and West Pomerania Region, outlined three main priorities for addressing tourism and transport challenges: managing overcrowding in tourist destinations, improving infrastructure in rural and urban areas, and fostering cooperation at regional and European levels.

PN Shadow Minister for Tourism Mario de Marco proposed several measures to enhance tourism, including conducting carrying capacity studies, boosting investment in tourist areas, and updating regulations to align with current demands.

The seminar provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies to balance economic growth with environmental and community sustainability in tourism and transport.

South Korea President Faces Impeachment After Martial Law Declaration

Dec 4 2024

South Korea faces political turmoil as opposition lawmakers begin impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol following his controversial attempt to impose martial law.

On Tuesday, Yoon declared martial law, sparking unprecedented scenes as 190 lawmakers gathered to overturn the order. Under pressure, Yoon reversed the decision, prompting cheers from protesters outside parliament.

The Democratic Party condemned Yoon’s actions as “insurrectionary behaviour” and accused him of “crimes of rebellion.”

They also implicated key officials, including Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min. Parliament must vote on the impeachment motion by Saturday, requiring at least 200 votes for approval.

The dramatic episode unfolded with hundreds of troops storming the National Assembly and lawmakers breaking barricades to access the voting chamber.

Protesters filled the streets of Seoul, with the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions announcing an indefinite strike until Yoon steps down.

Meanwhile, Yoon’s senior aides, including his chief of staff, have tendered their resignations.

If the impeachment passes, Yoon will be suspended, and the Constitutional Court will determine his fate. This echoes past impeachments of South Korean presidents Park Geun-hye in 2016 and Roh Moo-hyun in 2004.

Analysts suggest Yoon’s martial law declaration aimed to suppress opposition amid record-low approval ratings and political deadlock following the opposition’s recent electoral victory.

#MaltaDaily

‘Last Christmas’ Was Released By WHAM! 40 Years Ago

Dec 4 2024

Forty years ago, Wham! released Last Christmas, a song that has become a Christmas classic.

Written by George Michael in early 1984, the track was created in his childhood bedroom during a quiet winter afternoon.

According to bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, Michael seemed inspired, producing the melody almost effortlessly. The song captures the festive season’s spirit with its evocative sleigh bell sounds and heartfelt lyrics.

Wham! was already enjoying a successful year, having achieved their first number-one hit with Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and embarking on a global tour.

Last Christmas cemented their status as pop icons, showcasing Michael’s extraordinary songwriting ability. Though only 21 at the time, the duo aimed to create a perennial Christmas hit, and the song’s enduring popularity proves their success.

Despite their youthful image, Wham! was built on a deep friendship. Ridgeley, who had taken Michael under his wing at school, admired his bandmate’s talent and determination.

Though Michael increasingly wrote solo, Ridgeley recognised his ability to craft timeless hits, calling Last Christmas “remarkable.” Four decades on, the song remains a festive staple, its universal appeal ensuring it will accompany celebrations for generations to come.

#MaltaDaily

Eminem’s Mother Debbie Nelson Passes Away

Dec 4 2024

Debbie Nelson, mother of rapper Eminem, passed away on 2 December at the age of 69 in St. Joseph, Missouri, due to lung cancer complications, confirmed by Eminem’s representative.

Nelson’s illness was reported in September.

Born in 1955 on a Kansas military base, Nelson detailed her challenging upbringing in her 2008 memoir, My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem.

The eldest of five children, she assumed family responsibilities after her parents’ divorce. At 16, she married Eminem’s father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr., and gave birth to the rapper at 18.

Nelson and Eminem had a turbulent relationship, famously chronicled in his music, including the 2002 song Cleanin’ Out My Closet.

This led Nelson to sue him for defamation, seeking $11 million but receiving just $1,600 after legal fees. Despite their strained bond, Nelson expressed hopes for reconciliation in a 2008 interview. In 2013, Eminem’s song Headlights was interpreted as an apology.

Nelson celebrated Eminem’s achievements from afar, including his 2022 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, where she praised his success in a since-deleted video. Nelson’s estranged husband died in 2019, and she is survived by Eminem and her younger son, Nathan Mathers.

#MaltaDaily