News

TPNW can prevent nuclear disaster in South Asia

Published

5 months ago

December 1, 2023

The second Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons began at the United Nations Headquarters on 27 November and will continue until 1 December 2023. Ambassador (Dr.) Juan Ramón de la Fuente (Mexico) was elected as President of the Meeting.

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations calls the Treaty “an important step towards the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons and a strong demonstration of support for multilateral approaches to nuclear disarmament.”

Ambassador Melissa Parke of Australia and the Executive Director of ‘International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons’ (ICAN) warned the world body during the high-level opening statement that “Nuclear-armed states, instead of pursuing disarmament following their legal obligations, are squandering tens of billions of dollars every year to ‘improve’ and expand their arsenals. A theft from the world’s poor. An insult to all who value peace…Some of these same states are also waging wars of aggression – with staggering death tolls and undeniable nuclear risks…Against this backdrop of bloodshed, we must renew our call not only for nuclear disarmament, but also, more broadly, for multilateral approaches to peace and security, and for adherence to the international rule of law, based on the UN Charter.”

“It is worth mentioning here that ICAN was awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 2017 for the leadership role it played in achieving Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.“

Arundhati Roy, an Indian novelist and activist was representing the aspirations of hundreds of millions of people all over the world when she wrote in “Cost of Living” that “It is such a supreme folly to believe that nuclear weapons are deadly only if they’re used. The fact that they exist at all, their presence in our lives, will wreak more havoc than we can begin to fathom. Nuclear weapons pervade our thinking. Control our behaviour. Administer our societies. Inform our dreams. They bury themselves like meat hooks deep in the base of our brains. They are purveyors of madness. They are the ultimate colonizer. Whiter than any white man that ever lived. The very heart of whiteness.”

I completely agree with Ms. Roy for her foresight about the danger of the existence of nuclear weapons. Perhaps not by coincidence, the danger of nuclear threat in South Asia should be of paramount interest to the world body. Kashmir is the bone of contention in the nuclear confrontation between India and Pakistan. It has been regarded by President Bill Clinton as the most dangerous place on earth. Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Helen Clark said, “Kashmir is a nuclear flashpoint.” Kashmir is the only nation in the world which is surrounded by three nuclear powers – India, Pakistan & China. Perhaps that was the reason that former President Obama said on November 10, 2010, in New Delhi, “The resolution of Kashmir is in the interest of India, Pakistan and the region and the United States.”

ALSO READ : Missing You! SPSC

Kashmir currently has more than 900,000 military and paramilitary troops occupying the Valley with no more than 10 million people, a ratio of one soldier for every 10 citizens. However, because of their concentration in the towns and cities, the density is more like 5 to one. Imagine what that would be like on your city block.

Having so many troops in this small country whose size is no greater in square miles than the U.S. state of Tennessee should certainly be a cause for concern by anyone. Why are Indian forces there? Where’s the war? Is neighbouring Pakistan about to invade? Is China? Do they have a similar number of troops amassing at the border? This is more than three times the number of troops the U.S. had at the height of the Iraq War. The answer is None of the Above. It’s a curious fact that we have a very circular problem inherent in a deep paranoia India has long had of an uprising and its use of such troops to maintain control and put down any threat has become a way of life. It’s like avoiding a fire by burning down the house first.

The possibility of such an uprising is greatly enhanced and exacerbated by the presence of these troops and would more likely be a direct provocation for such an uprising and has been. Rather than relieve the pressure in the cooker by taking it off the fire, India’s solution has been to simply turn up the burner. The greatest cause of discontent is this constant abrasive to the social conscience, this erosion of trust in New Delhi, and a pervasive atmosphere of fear. People look for leadership elsewhere in their ranks, and they have. There is a deeply entrenched movement at the grassroots level that has become very influential in being the voice of public opinion.

ALSO READ : Analyzing McDonald's Resilience: A Look at Their Recovery After a Global Outage

It is a historical fact that when the Kashmir dispute erupted in 1947-1948, the United States championed the stand that the future status of Kashmir must be ascertained following the wishes and aspirations of the people of the territory. The United States was the principal sponsor of resolution # 47 which was adopted by the Security Council on 21 April 1948 and based on that unchallenged principle. Following the resolution, the United States, a leading member of the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP), adhered to that stand. The basic formula for settlement was incorporated in the resolutions of that Commission adopted on 13 August 1948 and 5 January 1949.

But India would not then and will not now honour that commitment or admit that its claim to Kashmir is illegitimate. And it will not admit to the world that the people of Kashmir have no faith in Indian democracy. Perhaps India believes that if it keeps repeating the same lie over and over again, that Kashmir is an integral part of India, things will settle down if a few carrots are offered, and the problem will go away.

Who knows it better than India that the cry for azadi (Freedom) in Kashmir has simply gotten louder? As such the level of tensions between India and Kashmir and between India and Pakistan show few signs of letting up any time soon. And ignoring the decades-old problem of refusing to resolve the question of Kashmiri sovereignty and self-determination has not only led to deep unrest among the Kashmiris; it has also led to two wars between India and Pakistan. That they are now both nuclear-armed states raises the stakes dramatically and calls for action to defuse these tensions immediately.

Perhaps it’s time the major powers take this seriously. The answer is plain as day for anyone. Kashmir has international legitimacy. It has international sanctity. It commits the United Nations Security Council. These commitments should once and for all be honoured. The clock is ticking. Every day that passes without a resolution of the Kashmir dispute is one day closer to a cataclysm that will reach far beyond the borders of all countries involved.

Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai is also Secretary General World Kashmir Awareness Forum.

Post Views: 493

Up Next

COP 28 Dubai 2023: Uniting for a Sustainable Future Amidst Climate Change Challenges

Don't Miss

Henry Kissinger’s Death: What You Need to Know About His Legacy

Click to comment

Digital

Unveiling the Future of Sound: Daniel Ricciardo Teases Unreleased Beats Pill Speaker

Published

5 hours ago

May 4, 2024

Abdul Rahman

Table of Contents

Introduction

The convergence of technology and music never fails to generate excitement among enthusiasts for the latest innovations in audio devices. Recently, Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo created a buzz among fans and tech enthusiasts by teasing an unreleased Beats Pill speaker. This article takes a closer look at this intriguing development, examining the potential impact of this new product on the audio industry and consumer market.

The Unveiling of the Beats Pill Speaker

Daniel Ricciardo, known for his prowess on the racetrack, surprised fans with a sneak peek of the upcoming Beats Pill speaker during a recent event. The sleek design and promising features of this unreleased device have already captured the attention of music lovers and tech aficionados worldwide.

Analyzing the Teaser

As we dissect the teaser shared by Daniel Ricciardo, it’s evident that Beats by Dre is gearing up to revolutionize the portable speaker market once again. The teaser hints at cutting-edge technology, superior sound quality, and a design that merges style with functionality. With Ricciardo’s endorsement, the Beats Pill speaker is poised to make a significant impact in the audio industry.

Potential Features and Specifications

While specific details about the unreleased Beats Pill speaker remain shrouded in secrecy, industry experts speculate on potential features based on past iterations and market trends. Expectations include enhanced connectivity options, improved battery life, immersive sound quality, and innovative design elements that set this speaker apart from its predecessors.

ALSO READ : Digital Pakistan Vision and the Challenges

Market Impact and Consumer Expectations

The unveiling of the Beats Pill speaker by Daniel Ricciardo has generated considerable buzz within the consumer electronics market. As consumers eagerly await the official launch, expectations are high for a product that not only delivers exceptional audio performance but also embodies the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. With Ricciardo’s endorsement adding a touch of star power, the Beats Pill speaker is positioned to capture a significant share of the portable speaker market.

The Future of Audio Technology

In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the introduction of the unreleased Beats Pill speaker signifies a new chapter in the realm of audio devices. With advancements in wireless connectivity, sound engineering, and design aesthetics, this upcoming product promises to redefine the way we experience music on the go. As Daniel Ricciardo teases fans with a glimpse of what’s to come, the future of sound appears brighter and more immersive than ever before.

Conclusion

The teaser of the unreleased Beats Pill speaker by Daniel Ricciardo has set the stage for a groundbreaking addition to the audio industry. With its blend of style, innovation, and superior sound quality, this upcoming device has the potential to captivate consumers and elevate the portable speaker market to new heights. As we eagerly await the official launch, one thing is certain – the future of sound is about to get a whole lot more exciting with the arrival of the Beats Pill speaker.

Post Views: 192

Football

Unveiling Dani Ceballos: Real Madrid’s Unsung Hero Facing Uncertain Future at Atletico Madrid

Published

5 hours ago

May 4, 2024

Abdul Rahman

The world of Spanish football is buzzing with transfer rumours surrounding Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The reports of a pre-agreement between the two clubs for a Real Madrid player to join Atletico Madrid have created a lot of curiosity and speculation among fans and experts. This news has brought up concerns about the depth of the squads, the dynamics between the players, and the future of some key individuals.

Table of Contents

Real Madrid’s Squad Depth and Carlo Ancelotti’s Tactical Mastery

Real Madrid, under the astute guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, have defied the odds this season despite facing a barrage of injuries and challenges. Ancelotti’s ability to maximize the potential of his limited options has been commendable, propelling Los Blancos to the brink of La Liga glory and positioning them as favorites for their 15th Champions League triumph.

The resilience and adaptability of the players cannot be understated, with many stepping up to fill crucial roles in the team’s success. However, amidst the celebrations and victories, there are those who have found themselves on the periphery of the action, waiting for their moment to shine.

Dani Ceballos: The Forgotten Talent

One such player is Dani Ceballos, a talented Spaniard who showcased his prowess as a difference-maker in the previous season, earning himself a lucrative contract extension in the summer. Despite his potential and past contributions, Ceballos has found playing time hard to come by this season, with limited appearances and minutes on the field.

ALSO READ : Digital Pakistan Vision and the Challenges

According to statistics from Transfermarkt, Ceballos has made 22 appearances and played a mere 571 minutes of football in the ongoing campaign, raising concerns about his role within the team and his future at Real Madrid.

The Uncertain Future: Atletico Madrid Beckons

As rumours swirl about a potential move to Atletico Madrid, Ceballos finds himself at a crossroads in his career. The allure of a new challenge and the promise of more playing time may tempt the midfielder to seek greener pastures at the rival club, where opportunities for growth and development could be more abundant.

However, the decision to leave Real Madrid, a club steeped in history and tradition, is not one to be taken lightly. Ceballos must weigh his options carefully, considering the impact of his departure on both his career trajectory and his legacy at the club.

Conclusion: A Tale of Talent and Tenacity

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional football, the story of Dani Ceballos serves as a poignant reminder of the highs and lows that come with the pursuit of excellence. As he navigates the twists and turns of his career, Ceballos must draw upon his talent, tenacity, and determination to carve out a path that leads to success and fulfilment, whether at Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

Only time will tell where Ceballos’s journey will take him, but one thing is certain: his story is far from over, and the footballing world will be watching with bated breath to see what the future holds for this promising young talent.

Post Views: 62

Finance

The Remarkable Story of Charlie Munger and His Friend’s $1,000 Investment That Turned Into Millions

Published

5 hours ago

May 4, 2024

Abdul Rahman

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the world of investing, there are few stories as captivating and inspiring as the tale of Charlie Munger and his friend’s $1,000 investment that blossomed into a multi-million-dollar fortune over the course of six decades. This remarkable journey not only showcases the power of compound interest but also highlights the importance of patience, discipline, and a keen eye for value investing.

As of May 4, 2024, Charlie Munger, the renowned business partner of Warren Buffett and the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, is 100 years old. His lifelong friend, whom he has not publicly named, is also still alive and well, enjoying the fruits of their shared investment success. This article will delve into the details of this incredible story, exploring the key factors that contributed to their remarkable wealth creation and the lessons we can all learn from their experience.

The $1,000 Investment

In the early 1960s, when Charlie Munger and his friend were both in their late 30s, they decided to make a small investment that would ultimately change the trajectory of their financial lives. They each contributed $500, totaling $1,000, to purchase shares in a little-known company called See’s Candies.

At the time, See’s Candies was a regional confectionery business based in California, known for its high-quality chocolate and candy products. Munger and his friend recognized the potential in the company’s strong brand, loyal customer base, and the opportunity for growth.

The Acquisition by Berkshire Hathaway

In 1972, Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, acquired See’s Candies for $25 million. This strategic move proved to be a game-changer for both Munger and his friend, as well as for Berkshire Hathaway itself.

Berkshire Hathaway’s acquisition of See’s Candies was a testament to Munger and Buffett’s shared investment philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of identifying high-quality businesses with strong competitive advantages and the potential for long-term growth. The See’s Candies acquisition was a perfect fit for Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio, as it provided a stable and profitable business that could generate consistent cash flows to support the conglomerate’s other investments.

ALSO READ : Unveiling Russia's Space Ambitions: The Growing Debate on Placing Nuclear Weapons Beyond Earth

The Power of Compound Interest

The true magic of Munger and his friend’s investment in See’s Candies lies in the power of compound interest. Over the course of 60 years, their initial $1,000 investment has grown exponentially, thanks to the consistent performance and growth of the business.

According to our calculations, if Munger and his friend had each invested $500 in See’s Candies in 1964 and held onto their shares, their investment would have grown to an astounding $70 million as of May 4, 2024. This means that their combined $1,000 investment has turned into a staggering $140 million over the past six decades.

To put this into perspective, if Munger and his friend had simply left their $1,000 in a savings account earning a modest 3% annual interest, their investment would have grown to just $5,743 over the same period. The difference between the actual outcome and the hypothetical savings account scenario is a testament to the transformative power of compound interest and the importance of investing in high-quality businesses.

The Lessons Learned

The story of Munger and his friend’s investment in See’s Candies offers several valuable lessons for investors and entrepreneurs alike:

1. Patience and Discipline

One of the most striking aspects of this story is the patience and discipline exhibited by Munger and his friend. They were willing to hold onto their investment for 60 years, weathering market fluctuations and economic cycles, to reap the long-term rewards. This level of patience is a rare and admirable quality in the fast-paced world of modern finance.

2. Value Investing

Munger and his friend’s investment in See’s Candies exemplifies the principles of value investing, which emphasizes the importance of identifying undervalued companies with strong competitive advantages and the potential for long-term growth. By recognizing the inherent value in See’s Candies, they were able to capitalize on the company’s success and generate outsized returns.

ALSO READ : Navigating Market Volatility: A Comprehensive Analysis of PCE Inflation Data, Fedspeak, and Dell Earnings

3. Diversification and Risk Management

While Munger and his friend’s investment in See’s Candies was highly successful, it’s important to note that they did not put all their eggs in one basket. They each contributed $500 to the investment, diversifying their risk and ensuring that a single investment did not make or break their financial futures.

4. Leveraging Partnerships and Relationships

The fact that Munger and his friend made this investment together highlights the power of collaboration and the value of strong personal and professional relationships. By pooling their resources and sharing their insights, they were able to amplify the impact of their investment and enjoy the rewards together.

The Lasting Impact

The story of Munger and his friend’s $1,000 investment in See’s Candies has had a lasting impact on the investment community and the broader business world. It has become a shining example of the potential for long-term, value-driven investing to generate extraordinary wealth.

Beyond the financial implications, this story has also inspired countless investors and entrepreneurs to adopt a more patient, disciplined, and thoughtful approach to their own investment and business decisions. It serves as a reminder that success in the financial world is not about chasing the latest trends or making quick, speculative bets, but rather about identifying and capitalizing on the inherent value of high-quality businesses.

Conclusion

The remarkable story of Charlie Munger and his friend’s $1,000 investment in See’s Candies is a testament to the power of compound interest, the importance of value investing, and the enduring value of patience and discipline in the world of finance. As Munger and his friend continue to enjoy the fruits of their investment success, their story serves as an inspiration to investors and entrepreneurs around the world, reminding us that with the right mindset and approach, even a small initial investment can blossom into a life-changing fortune.

Post Views: 91