Russia Gifts Lion, Bears, Yaks & Other Animals To North Korea

Nov 25 2024

Russia has gifted more than 70 animals to North Korea, including an African lion, two brown bears, two domestic yaks, 40 mandarin ducks, and five white cockatoos, signaling deepening ties between the two nations.

The animals, sent by Russian President Vladimir Putin, arrived at Pyongyang Central Zoo on Wednesday, accompanied by Russian veterinarians.

The gesture follows North Korea’s recent deployment of approximately 10,000 troops to Russia’s border with Ukraine, further cementing their alliance. Russia’s natural resources minister, Alexander Kozlov, who oversaw the relocation, emphasized the symbolic importance of such exchanges.

“Historically, animals have been given as signs of support, kindness, and care,” Kozlov said.

The diplomatic bond between the countries has grown significantly this year. In June, Putin visited North Korea to meet with leader Kim Jong Un. The meeting resulted in a “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty,” marking the strongest cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang since the Cold War. Both nations face extensive Western sanctions, prompting closer collaboration.

This symbolic exchange of animals reflects the countries’ shared opposition to Western influence and highlights their alignment in forming a strategic partnership amidst growing global isolation.

#MaltaDaily

At Least 5 Dead As Storm Bert Hits United Kingdom

Nov 25 2024

Storm Bert wreaked havoc across the UK over the weekend, claiming at least five lives and causing extensive power outages, flooding, and travel disruptions.

Rivers in Wales overflowed, submerging streets and vehicles, while rescuers waded through floodwaters to save stranded residents and pets. Fatalities were reported nationwide, including a man in his 60s struck by a falling tree in Winchester and a man in his 80s whose car entered floodwaters in Lancashire.

The storm brought over 130mm of rainfall in 24 hours, with 53 heavy rainfall reports logged.

The Met Office issued severe weather warnings, forecasting further downpours and strong winds until midweek. Flood warnings were especially high in Wales, with over 60 alerts reported.

Travel chaos ensued, with 300 flights canceled and 1,200 delayed at Heathrow Airport. Train services across key routes, including London to Swansea and Exeter to Barnstaple, were suspended due to flooding and fallen trees.

Power outages were widespread, affecting parts of England and Scotland.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer commended emergency workers and expressed solidarity with affected communities.

As Storm Bert clears, western Europe braces for its impact, with high wind warnings issued for parts of Germany and France.

#MaltaDaily

Prime Minister Welcomes Students To Auberge De Castille

Nov 25 2024

A group of students were welcomed to Auberge de Castle this morning by Prime Minister Robert Abela, who gave them a grand tour, signed some autographs and showed them what it looks like to walk in the shoes of a country leader.

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A post shared by Robert Abela (@robertabela.mt)

The students were all for it, eating up the opportunity to spend some time with Abela and get in close and personal.

#MaltaDaily

Daniel Attard Appointed To European Parliament’s Petitions Network

Nov 25 2024

MEP Daniel Attard has been appointed as the representative of the Committee on Industry, Research, and Energy (ITRE) to the European Parliament’s Petitions Network.

This appointment underscores the trust placed in him by his colleagues on this key committee to represent their interests and address petitions submitted by citizens on issues related to industry, research, and energy policy.

“This is an important role that provides a clear platform for the citizens of Malta and Europe to have their voices heard. I am committed to strengthening people’s input into decisions that directly impact their lives,” Attard said.

This role enhances the European Parliament’s capacity to address citizens’ concerns and highlights Attard’s dedication to serving as a positive force for Malta at the heart of the EU.

#MaltaDaily