Biden likely to talk with Netanyahu; hostage deal ‘very close,’ security adviser says

President Joe Biden speaks in the Roosevelt Room at the White House in Washington, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. (AP)
President Joe Biden speaks in the Roosevelt Room at the White House in Washington, Friday, Jan. 10, 2025. (AP)
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Updated 12 January 2025
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Biden likely to talk with Netanyahu; hostage deal ‘very close,’ security adviser says

Biden likely to talk with Netanyahu; hostage deal ‘very close,’ security adviser says
  • Biden getting daily updates on talks in Doha, where Israeli and Palestinian officials said since Thursday some progress made

WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden will likely talk with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu soon, his national security adviser said on Sunday, as US officials race to reach a Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20.
Jake Sullivan told CNN’s “State of the Union” program that the parties were “very, very close” to reaching a deal to halt the fighting in the enclave and free the remaining 98 hostages held there, but still had to get it across the finish line.
Biden was getting daily updates on the talks in Doha, where Israeli and Palestinian officials have said since Thursday that some progress has been made in the indirect talks between Israel and militant group Hamas, Sullivan said.
“We are still determined to use every day we have in office to get this done,” he said, adding that Biden “is likely, in the near term, to engage with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and we are not, by any stretch of imagination, setting this aside.”
He said there was still a chance to reach an agreement before Biden leaves office, but that it was also possible “Hamas, in particular, remains intransigent.”
Israel launched its assault in Gaza after Hamas fighters stormed across its borders in October 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
Since then, more than 46,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to Palestinian health officials, with much of the enclave laid to waste and gripped by a humanitarian crisis, and most of its population displaced.
Vice President-elect JD Vance told the “Fox News Sunday” program in an interview taped on Saturday that he expects a deal for the release of US hostages in the Middle East to be announced in the final days of the Biden administration, maybe in the last day or two.
President-elect Donald Trump, a staunch supporter of Israel, has strongly backed Netanyahu’s goal of destroying Hamas. He has promised to bring peace to the Middle East, but has not said how he would accomplish that.


Russia to collaborate with Pakistan on modernization of steel mill — state media

Russia to collaborate with Pakistan on modernization of steel mill — state media
Updated 3 min 18 sec ago
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Russia to collaborate with Pakistan on modernization of steel mill — state media

Russia to collaborate with Pakistan on modernization of steel mill — state media
  • A team of technical experts from Russia was in Pakistan last month to evaluate Pakistan Steel Mills
  • PSM among dozens of loss-making public entities Pakistan wants to sell as part of IMF reforms program 

ISLAMABAD: Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P. Khorev has announced cooperation with Islamabad this year in the energy and industrial sectors, including the modernization of a state-owned steel mill, Pakistani state media reported on Wednesday.

A team of technical experts from Russia was in Pakistan last month to assess Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM), one of several firms Pakistan wants to sell to revive loss-making entities as it strives to deliver reforms under a $7 billion International Monetary Fund bailout.

Islamabad has for years been pumping billions of dollars into cash-bleeding state enterprises to keep them afloat, including one of the largest loss-making enterprises, Pakistan International Airline, and PSM, once the producer of almost half the country’s steel needs but which has been in decline since 2008 due to corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of investment. 

As of August 2024, the accumulated losses of the mills stood at over $800 million. PSM has not produced steel at its 19,000-acre facility since June 2015.

“Ambassador Khorev has said that Russia and Pakistan will focus on cooperation in energy and industry including the modernization of the Steel Mills, agriculture and transport in 2025,” state news agency, the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), said. 

Pakistan and Russia, once Cold War rivals, have strengthened their relationship in recent years through increased dialogue and trade, including in 2023 when Pakistan began purchasing discounted Russian crude oil that had been banned from European markets due to Russia’s war on Ukraine. Islamabad also received its first shipment of liquified petroleum gas from Russia that year. 

It is targeting 100,000 bpd of imports from Russia, compared with the total 154,000 bpd of crude it imported in 2022, in the hopes that will lower its import bill, address a foreign exchange crisis and keep a lid on inflation.

However, the benefits are being offset by increased shipping costs and lower quality refined products compared with the fuels produced with crude from Pakistan’s main suppliers, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Energy imports make up the majority of the South Asian country’s external payments.

“Russia stands ready to intensify cooperation with Pakistan on the use of international transport corridors,” APP quoted the Russian ambassador as saying. 

These include the Pakistan Stream gas project, also known as the North-South gas pipeline, which is to be built in collaboration with Russian companies. The 1,100 km (683 mile)-long pipeline will deliver imported LNG from Karachi on the Arabian Sea coast to power plants in the northeastern province of Punjab. Another corridor is the Trans-Afghan Multimodal Transport Corridor, which will run from northeastern Kazakhstan via Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and onward by sea to the port of Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates.

The statement also quoted Khorev as saying Russia was considering being involved in the modernization of the Quetta-Taftan railway line, one of the main railway lines in Pakistan. and increasing maritime cargo transportation.


Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief distributes 50,000 winter kits in Pakistan’s cold areas

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief distributes 50,000 winter kits in Pakistan’s cold areas
Updated 10 min 27 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief distributes 50,000 winter kits in Pakistan’s cold areas

Saudi Arabia’s KSrelief distributes 50,000 winter kits in Pakistan’s cold areas
  • KSrelief distributes most number of winter kits, 16,000, in northwestern Pakistan, says state-run media 
  • Each kit includes two quilts, woolen shawls for men and women and warm clothing for children and adults

ISLAMABAD: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has distributed 50,000 winter relief kits in 52 of Pakistan’s coldest and snow-covered districts, state-run media reported on Wednesday, saying that an estimated 350,000 people to benefit from the initiative. 

The humanitarian agency launched its initiative last month, saying that it would distribute 84,500 shelter, NFIs (non-food items), and winter kits across Pakistan as part of its annual initiative to support vulnerable communities.

KSrelief had said during its first phase, it would distribute 50,000 winter relief kits in Pakistan’s coldest regions. The remaining 34,500 shelter NFIs will be strategically allocated for disaster response, with distribution planned over three additional phases, set to conclude by December 2025, the agency had said. 

“The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has launched a large-scale relief initiative, distributing 50,000 winter kits to residents in 52 of Pakistan’s coldest and snow-covered districts,” the organization said, as per a report in the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). 

KSrelief said 12,200 kits in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province have been already distributed across 11 districts out of a total of 16,000. The remaining 3,800 kits are currently being delivered in six additional districts, the report said. 

It also distributed 10,000 kits in the northern Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region, 6,000 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), 4,000 in Sindh and 2,000 in Punjab. 

“Each winter kit includes two quilts, woolen shawls for men and women, and warm clothing for children and adults – offering much-needed protection against harsh weather conditions,” APP said. 

APP said the kits are being distributed in collaboration with Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), local administrations and the Hayat Foundation.

“With an estimated 350,000 beneficiaries across the country, the initiative underscores KSrelief’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian aid, providing essential support to vulnerable communities facing extreme winter hardships,” the report said. 

In 2023 alone, KSrelief provided over 110 million meals globally, including a significant share for Pakistan. 


UAE’s president receives phone call from US secretary of state

UAE’s president receives phone call from US secretary of state
Updated 9 min 50 sec ago
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UAE’s president receives phone call from US secretary of state

UAE’s president receives phone call from US secretary of state
  • Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan tells Marco Rubio that 2-state solution is key for peace in Middle East

LONDON:  Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the president of the UAE, received a phone call from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday.

The UAE’s president told Rubio that a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was the key to peace in the Middle East.

Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the need for a just and lasting peace in the region, ensuring security and stability for everyone, the Emirates News Agency reported.

The parties discussed ways to strengthen cooperation across various fields to serve the countries’ strategic relationship.


Saudi economy hits 52% non-oil growth, attracts 600 HQs, says Al-Falih 

Saudi economy hits 52% non-oil growth, attracts 600 HQs, says Al-Falih 
Updated 4 min 15 sec ago
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Saudi economy hits 52% non-oil growth, attracts 600 HQs, says Al-Falih 

Saudi economy hits 52% non-oil growth, attracts 600 HQs, says Al-Falih 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy are yielding substantial results, with non-oil sectors now accounting for 52 percent of the country’s total economic activities. Furthermore, the number of foreign companies relocating their regional headquarters to Riyadh has risen to 600.

These statistics were shared by Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih at the third PIF Private Sector Forum, which opened in Riyadh on Wednesday.

Al-Falih emphasized that the Kingdom’s economic transformation has been propelled by significant investment growth, with total investment in 2024 expected to reach SR1.2 trillion—almost double the investment levels prior to the launch of Vision 2030.

He further noted that by the end of 2024, Saudi Arabia’s economy is projected to reach SR4 trillion ($1.1 trillion).

“Last year was a very good year. In the private sector and investment domain in general, this is measured by fixed capital formation. Before Vision 2030, the annual rate was around SR642 billion, representing about 22 percent of GDP,” Al-Falih said.

He added: “The Saudi economy has surpassed an important milestone in its diversification journey. We’ve achieved 52 percent of economic activities being entirely non-oil. Even during years when oil-related activities were low due to the Kingdom’s usual production policies, the growth rate of non-oil activities remained steady at 4-6 percent.”

The minister highlighted the increasing role of the private sector in driving investments, noting that in the past, government and oil-related investments were the primary sources of capital inflows.

“In the past, most of the investment came from the government and the oil sector, Aramco and its investments,” Al-Falih explained.

He continued: “Around 72 percent of investments now come from other private sector industries. The fund (PIF) itself directly invests about 12-13 percent of total fixed capital formation, but it plays a crucial role in stimulating other investments.”

Al-Falih also pointed to international recognition of Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation, citing remarks from US President Donald Trump regarding the effectiveness of the PIF.

“Trump, the president of the world’s largest economy and the global leader most focused on economic and investment policy in his country, said that the first step within the first week or two would be to establish a sovereign wealth fund,” he noted.

Al-Falih continued: “The only fund he referenced was the PIF—not only because its returns and global impact are well known through bold initiatives, but also because the American president recognized that the Saudi economy has diversified and grown, making it an economy that investors worldwide are eager to engage with due to its unprecedented stimulative role.”

The minister also highlighted the improved attractiveness of Saudi Arabia as a business hub, with the number of registered investment licenses soaring from 4,000 in 2018-2019 to 40,000 today.

Al-Falih recalled a recent meeting with Nokia, where the company confirmed it would manage operations in 75 countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa from its regional headquarters in Riyadh.

“This hub will be connected to their largest global logistics center for product distribution, as well as a research and development center. In the future, we aspire for them to incorporate manufacturing into their operations,” he said.

Foreign investments in Saudi Arabia have surged significantly, with total foreign investment stock reaching SR900 billion—double the amount recorded at the launch of Vision 2030.

Al-Falih also observed that the annual inflow of foreign investments has tripled compared to pre-Vision 2030 levels.

He attributed these achievements to the Kingdom’s legislative improvements, noting that more than 800 regulatory reforms have been introduced to enhance the investment environment.

“With the integrated efforts of all entities, regulators, legislators, the Competitiveness Center, the Ministry of Investment, and others, more than 800 legislative improvements have been introduced, some minor and others fundamental and pivotal,” he said.

These reforms include, but are not limited to, the Civil Transactions Law, the Bankruptcy Law, and the new Companies Law.

Al-Falih underscored that Saudi Arabia’s leadership in digital and industrial transformation has also played a key role in attracting global investors.

“Today, in the Kingdom, the penetration rate of 5G and 6G networks, key drivers for attracting many companies into the heart of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is double the average in G20 countries and major economic nations,” he stated.

The PIF Private Sector Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for businesses and investors to engage with Saudi Arabia’s evolving economic landscape, reinforcing the country’s commitment to long-term growth and diversification.


‘You always want to get better, and that’s just golf,’ says Patty Tavatanakit ahead of her Saudi Ladies title defense

‘You always want to get better, and that’s just golf,’ says Patty Tavatanakit ahead of her Saudi Ladies title defense
Updated 8 min ago
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‘You always want to get better, and that’s just golf,’ says Patty Tavatanakit ahead of her Saudi Ladies title defense

‘You always want to get better, and that’s just golf,’ says Patty Tavatanakit ahead of her Saudi Ladies title defense
  • Golf Saudi ambassadors Patty Tavatanakit and Carlota Ciganda, both previous winners in Saudi’s capital, are set for the $5 million PIF Saudi Ladies International
  • Patty Tavatanakit: Being a Golf Saudi ambassador this year, I’m really grateful to be a part of this journey

RIYADH: Patty Tavatanakit is is ready to defend her title at the PIF Saudi Ladies International from 13-15 February at Riyadh Golf Club, approaching the challenge with a fierce determination.

Reflecting on her off-season, Tavatanakit admitted she had not dwelled much on her three victories last year but instead remained focused on improvement and the road ahead.

The Thai player said: “I feel like, in the off-season, I hadn’t really reflected back on last year and the three wins. But I just kept on working and looking forward to this year already. I don’t know what to think or what to expect. 

“Coming into this week, I just really want to play my best. I’m working on some things right now. I just switched to a new coach, so I really want to focus on the process.” 

As the defending champion, she acknowledges the pressure but views it as a privilege.

“I feel like there’s always pressure. You're coming back as a defending champion. You’ve done it once. People expect you to do it again. But I could take it as a positive. Pressure is a privilege, and I’m very privileged to have that at the back of my mind.”

Last year was a strong season for Tavatanakit, with victories in Thailand, two additional top-10 finishes, and a third-place finish at The Amundi Evian Championship. However, she believes there’s still room for improvement.

“It was very, very important. A big boost in confidence, for sure. Earlier last year, I felt like my performance was there.

“At the same time though, I didn’t feel like I performed my best or had my form all year round. That’s something I’ve been working on this off-season - just trying to eliminate those big misses, tee to green, and cleaning things up on the putting green a little bit. You always want to get better, and that’s just golf.”

Tavatanakit also praised the efforts of PIF and Golf Saudi in growing the game globally. 

“What they’re doing for the game of golf in general is amazing. They’re showing their commitment. They’re here, they’re staying, and they’re trying to grow the game globally. Being a Golf Saudi ambassador this year, I’m really grateful to be a part of this journey.”

Carlota Ciganda also echoed similar sentiments about the event’s significance. 

The Spanish Solheim Cup star said: “I think it's amazing what Golf Saudi are doing. I've been with them for the last three years and again this year. Very grateful for all the support and their commitment to women’s golf with all the tournaments on the Ladies European Tour, these team events. 

“Tournaments like this one with the same prize fund as the men - I think that’s changing women’s golf. It’s moving towards more equality, so I’m very happy to be a part of it.”

Tavatanakit’s primary goal for the season is clear: “I’d like to win this year. Very clear about that, very passionate about it. I’ll do anything I can to make that happen.”

As she prepares to defend her title, Tavatanakit emphasizes mental toughness. “I feel like the words “comfortable” and “confident” are kind of an illusion for me now. You just have togo out there regardless of how you feel. Just got to make it happen and accept that it’s golf - it’s not always going to look pretty.”

A previous team captain and winner in Riyadh, Ciganda embraces the format change. “I love playing for the team. It’s something I always enjoy. I love playing for my teammates, and I think the best comes out of me when I play for others as well.”

She also had words of encouragement for young players like Mimi Rhodes, who has previously stated Ciganda as a role model whilst growing up. 

“Young players nowadays are very ready to play. When they turn pro, they are much more prepared than 15 years ago. But I think it’s important to have fun, enjoy, and have a good team around you. It can be lonely sometimes, so having a coach and a team that supports you through good and bad times is really important. Just enjoy the process. Golf has ups and downs - that’s just how it is.” 

The Spaniard’s goal for the season? 

“Winning. Winning on the LPGA, winning here, winning majors - that’s what I want. Being European, the AIG Women’s Open is always special, but I’d be happy with any Major.” 

It’s all to play for as Tavatankit and Ciganda hope they can kick start their season with an all important win.