Chief Secretary Eric Chan said the government would not let its guard down in the final stretch to Monday's opening of the redeveloped Huanggang port, to ensure a safe, orderly, and smooth operation. Writing on social media, Chan said he chaired an inter-departmental meeting at the crossing on Saturday morning to finalise arrangements for its opening. He stressed that the highest standards and strictest requirements had to be observed. Chan said he had instructed all relevant departments to conduct final checks and adjustments for clearance systems, inspection procedures, facilities, equipment and contingency plans. Frontline departments, he said, must ensure a smooth and seamless transition from the old facility to the new one. Chan said departments must also step up real-time support and deploy sufficient manpower at the crossing to guide and assist cross-boundary travellers. He urged people to avoid visiting the new crossing in the initial stages of operation unless they have an immediate need, warning that the facility is expected to be very busy. Edited by Azam Khan
China, EU make progress in trade consultations
AISA and Left Party workers protested outside the BJP headquarters in Delhi, demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation over alleged electoral irregularities. Former Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan accused the BJP-led Centre and RSS of undermining democratic institutions and voting rights, as police detained activists amid heightened security for the CJP protest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Chennai for the launch of significant development projects. He will inaugurate the Chennai Metro's Poonamallee-Vadapalani stretch, worth Rs 4,900 crore, to enhance public transport. Additionally, projects under National Highway aimed at improving regional connectivity will also be inaugurated. Modi will also participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of a local school and visit the Jalakandeswarar Temple.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Chennai for the launch of significant development projects. He will inaugurate the Chennai Metro's Poonamallee-Vadapalani stretch, worth Rs 4,900 crore, to enhance public transport. Additionally, projects under National Highway aimed at improving regional connectivity will also be inaugurated. Modi will also participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of a local school and visit the Jalakandeswarar Temple.
Since its Broadway debut in 2013, the musical Kinky Boots has connected audiences across cultures with its story of acceptance and self-discovery. Ahead of its return to Chinese stages later this year, actors Omari Collins (Lola) and Noah Silverman (Charlie) visited China recently to meet local audiences and experience the country.
Kamal Haasan has responded to Elon Musk's claims regarding Starlink's regulatory delays in India. He emphasized that no billionaire should influence a nation's policy, highlighting India's strategic interests. Haasan called for affordable satellite internet to bridge the digital divide in India. He criticized the hypocrisy of Western nations advocating for free markets while practicing protectionism. The Indian democracy will determine its future without the influence of outside vested interests.
Kamal Haasan has responded to Elon Musk's claims regarding Starlink's regulatory delays in India. He emphasized that no billionaire should influence a nation's policy, highlighting India's strategic interests. Haasan called for affordable satellite internet to bridge the digital divide in India. He criticized the hypocrisy of Western nations advocating for free markets while practicing protectionism. The Indian democracy will determine its future without the influence of outside vested interests.
China and the European Union held successful trade talks aimed at managing contentious disputes and avoiding escalation. Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic discussed hybrid vehicle exports, which are controversial in Europe. Beijing agreed to moderate its hybrid vehicle exports significantly over the coming years to ease pressure on local automakers.
Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest in Chandigarh against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged vote theft, demanding his resignation. Led by Manish Sisodia and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, the demonstration criticised the BJP-led Centre over detentions in Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party's Jantar Mantar protest.