phlboss mines pattern KUWAIT CITY, Dec 28: Figures from the Central Bureau of Statistics revealed that Kuwait’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at current prices decreased by 9.6 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching 50.8 billion dinars, reports Al-Seyassah daily. This decline highlights the continued dominance of the oil sector, which remains the cornerstone of Kuwait’s economy. The oil sector accounted for 47.1 percent of GDP, with its added value declining by 19.9 percent year-on-year. This drop is attributed to a decline in global oil prices from $100.9 per barrel in 2022 to $82.5 in 2023. The sector’s added value amounted to 23.9 billion dinars in 2023. Despite the downturn in the oil sector, the non-oil sector demonstrated resilience, growing by 2.1 percent at current prices, totaling 26.8 billion dinars. Notable contributors to this growth include: Public administration and defense, which grew by 5.4 percent and contributed 11.5 percent of GDP. Financial activities, which grew by 1 percent, contributed 8.6 percent of GDP. For the third quarter of 2024, GDP at current prices fell by 7.5 percent compared to Q3 2023, recording 11.9 billion dinars. This decline was driven by a 15.6 percent decrease in the added value of the oil sector, reflecting the impact of lower global oil prices ($86.7 per barrel in Q3 2023 to $79.8 per barrel in Q3 2024) and reduced production quantities. However, the non-oil sector showed a slight 0.1 percent growth, contributing 55.6 percent of GDP in Q3 2024. At constant prices, GDP declined by 3.9 percent in Q3 2024 compared to Q3 2023, amounting to 9.7 billion dinars. The oil sector’s added value at constant prices dropped by 5.3 percent, while the non-oil sector saw a 2.5 percent decline. Key contributions to Kuwait’s economic performance in Q3 2024 include: Manufacturing (refining activities): 8.1 percent at current prices, 7.7 percent at constant prices. Public administration, defense and social security: 12.6 percent of GDP, contributing 1.5 billion dinars. Financial brokerage activities: 9.5 percent at current prices, 9 percent at constant prices. Services sector (education, health, restaurants, real estate): 21.7 percent of GDP in Q3. The figures underscore Kuwait’s continued dependence on the oil sector, though the non-oil economy continues to show growth in key areas.Bank of America signs again with FIFA for US-hosted Club World Cup that still has no TV deals

The Haryana government on Saturday approved the proposal to increase external development charges (EDC) of various potential real estate zones in the state by 20% for 2025, and a 10% increase every year from 2026. The decision will likely increase the cost of real estate development, which might make properties costlier for buyers. However, the positive impact could be a potential boost to infrastructure development funded by these higher EDC collections.. “The cabinet approved a one-time increase of 20% from January 1, 2025, and further an increase of 10% every year with effect from January 1 of every year was approved,” the government spokesperson said. EDC is the fee collected from real estate developers to build external infrastructure facilities outside the boundaries of a project, such as roads, drains, electrical infrastructure, water and sewage lines. EDC is calculated by the department of town and country planning (DTCP) area-wise, depending on the potential for growth of a particular residential, commercial, industrial or mixed-use locality. The rates were last revised in 2015. The 10% annual EDC increase will put major financial burden on developers and end users across the state and particularly Gurugram, said Parveen Jain, president, Naredco (National Real Estate Development Council), Haryana. “Around 2015-2016, developers had almost stopped taking licence as EDC rates were very high after which the government slowed down on that and did not increase the charges. The 10% increase will be unviable, and the government should rethink this decision,” he said, adding that existing infrastructure in the city including roads has not been developed while developer and homebuyers have paid thousands of crores of rupees in EDC. Vinod Behl, a real estate expert based in Gurugram, said that increasing EDC rates will badly hit the real estate industry as the rates are already high and affordability is low in the realty market. “The government had recently increased circle rates and property prices have already hit the roof in the city. High rate of interest and high cost of properties will ensure that real estate markets witness a slowdown in 2025,” he said. According to experts, the current cost of EDC in a project in Gurugram is 7-8% of the entire project cost. A government spokesperson said that existing EDC rates were based on an indexation policy that had taken EDC rates of 2015 as the base, and these were not increased in the last eight years. Prior to the indexation policy of 2015, EDC rates were increased every year. According to officials aware of the matter, the state government in 2018 requested the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, to determine EDC rates form Gurugram and Rohtak, and IIT-Roorkee for Faridabad, Panchkula and Hisar. However, both institutes expressed their inability to do the work due to which the indexation policy and previous EDC rates continued till date, they added. Following the state cabinet’s decision on Saturday, DTCP can issue policy instructions under Section 9A of the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Area Act, 1975 and undertake amendments in the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Rules, 1976. In another decision, the state cabinet has approved the engagement of a consultant to decide the base EDC rates to determine indexation rates in future, the government spokesperson said.Olufemi Soneye It is important to address the concerns raised in Farooq Kperogi’s recent article, “Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC”, and to clarify some of the misconceptions about the operations and leadership structure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited. First, employment, promotions, appointments, and movements of business leaders at the NNPC are not influenced by ethnicity, tribe, religion, or political affiliation. Therefore, decisions within the NNPC are guided strictly by merit, business requirements, and expertise. This approach ensures that only the most qualified and competent individuals occupy positions that are critical to the company’s success. It is significant that our company focuses on efficient and effective service delivery, which is anchored on the commitment of qualified work team. The NNPC prides itself on being a professional organisation with a diverse leadership lineup that includes individuals from various parts of the world, not just Nigeria. The presence of qualified foreigners in the employ of the NNPC, who have been bolstering the value chain of production and distribution of allied products, is verifiable. It is, thus, sad that a professor of Mr Kperogi’s standing would resort to and play up the issue of ethnic identities in the configuration of the work team in NNPC just to demonise President Tinubu. This editorial preoccupation of Mr Kperogi is nothing but sheer red herring, ostensibly orchestrated to detract the President’s disciplined leadership that upholds the freedom of the NNPC as well as the company’s work ethic that has produced its strings of sterling performances. Under the leadership of Mele Kyari, the NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones and recorded several “firsts” in the industry. These milestones were not defined, coloured or contoured by primordial fault-lines of tribe and religion. They were inspired by the collective drive for excellence. These milestones include groundbreaking advancements in exploration, production, and global partnerships that were previously thought unattainable. This success is a testament to the company’s focus on competence and professionalism rather than on parochialism as insinuated in the editorial offerings by Mr Kperogi. Regarding Mr Kperogi’s notions about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is essential to highlight that Mr President has not interfered in the operations or leadership movements within the NNPC. On the contrary, his administration has introduced transformative policies that have added immense value to the oil and gas sector and the broader Nigerian economy. President Tinubu’s approach has been to empower institutions like the NNPC to operate independently while fostering a conducive environment for growth and innovation. His reforms have set a benchmark that has significantly improved the sector, surpassing the achievements of many of his predecessors. It is disappointing that individuals like Mr. Kperogi, who have lived and observed governance structures abroad, would overlook these accomplishments and focus on divisive narratives. Symbolism, while important, must not overshadow the substantive achievements and transformative impact of policies and leadership on national development. We extend an open invitation to Mr. Kperogi to visit the NNPC and witness firsthand the professionalism, sacrifices, and daily efforts that go into driving Nigeria’s economic engine. He will see a team that works tirelessly to contribute to the growth of our economy and the prosperity of our nation. The NNPC remains committed to fostering unity, embracing diversity, and upholding the principles of meritocracy. It is through such commitments that we can continue to work to achieve and strengthen national cohesion and position Nigeria as a global leader in the energy sector. We urge commentators and stakeholders alike to base their assessments on hard facts and evidence, rather than conjectures, for the greater good of our nation. . Olufemi Soneye is the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the NNPC L imi t e dGuest Opinion: Trump should reform financial watchdogs. Here’s how

Trump's 'Disaster' Appointments Are Coming, RFK Jr.'s Running Mate WarnsGovernment to block incinerators that do not contribute to green plansFox News senior congressional correspondent Chad Pergram reports on the death of former President Jimmy Carter on 'Fox News Live.' President Biden addressed the nation on Sunday in the wake of former President Jimmy Carter's death, commending the late statesman while also taking a swipe at the current president-elect during his speech. Biden, who sounded hoarse during the speech, said he "lost a dear friend" on Sunday, noting that he had known Carter for more than 50 years. Carter passed away in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100, after nearly two years of being in hospice care. During his remarks, Biden said Carter is a model "of what it means to live a life of meaning and purpose, a life of principle, faith and humility." "Some look at Jimmy Carter and see a man of a bygone era with honesty and character. Faith and humility mattered, but I don't believe it's a bygone era," Biden said. "We'd all do well to try to be more like Jimmy Carter." JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100 Biden criticized Donald Trump during a speech about Jimmy Carter's legacy on Sunday. (Getty Images) Biden said his fondest memory of Carter happened in the 1970s when the then-Georgia governor asked Biden for help with his presidential campaign. "He grabbed me by the arm and said, ‘I need you to help with my campaign,'" Biden recalled. "I said, 'I've only been around a couple of years, Mr. Governor.' He said, ‘No, it’ll make a difference.'" "I said, 'I'm not sure it will," Biden added. "When I endorsed him for president, I told him why [I] was endorsing him and that it was not only his policies but his character, his decency, the honor he communicated to everyone." JIMMY, ROSALYNN CARTER'S HABITAT FOR HUMANITY LEGACY WILL CONTINUE, ORGANIZATION SAYS Jimmy Carter, Rosalynn Carter and their children are shown during the 1980 Democratic National Convention in New York City. (Ron Galella) When a reporter asked Biden what President-elect Trump should take from Carter's legacy, Biden replied, "Decency." "Decency, decency, decency. ... Can you imagine Jimmy Carter walking by someone who needed something and just keep walking? Can you imagine Jimmy Carter referring to someone by the way they look or the way they talk?" Biden's speech came after Trump issued his own statement about Carter's death. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Former President Jimmy Carter (Hulton Archive/Getty Images) "Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." Trump later wrote that although he "strongly" disagreed with Carter philosophically and politically, he realized that the former president "truly loved and respected" the U.S. and all it stands for. "He worked hard to make America a better place, and for that I give him my highest respect," Trump said. "He was truly a good man and, of course, will be greatly missed. He was also very consequential, far more than most Presidents, after he left the Oval Office." Fox News Digital's Greg Wehner contributed to this report. Andrea Margolis is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. Readers can send story tips to andrea.margolis@fox.com .

CHICAGO (AP) — Matt Duchene and Jamie Benn each had a goal and two assists, and the Dallas Stars beat the Chicago Blackhawks 5-1 on Sunday night. Jason Robertson, Evgenii Dadonov and Wyatt Johnston each had a goal and an assist for Dallas, which had lost three of four. Jake Oettinger made 24 saves. Chicago dropped its fourth consecutive game. It lost three of four in its season series against Dallas. Connor Bedard scored his 10th goal for the Blackhawks, and Arvid Soderblom made 26 stops. Next up for Bedard and company is the Winter Classic on Tuesday against St. Louis. Dallas grabbed control after Chicago forward Tyler Bertuzzi was ejected 8:11 into the second period. Bertuzzi was sent off for elbowing Stars forward Colin Blackwell in the face. Robertson made it 2-1 when he converted a wrist shot from the right circle at 8:23. It was Robertson's first goal since Dec. 14 and No. 8 on the season. Dadonov got a slick pass from Duchene and scored his 10th goal with 5:14 left in the second. Stars: Miro Heiskanen added two assists as the Stars used their superior depth to control much of the game. Blackhawks: Once again, not enough offensive opportunities. It has been a recurring problem for the Blackhawks for much of the season so far. Johnston's stick broke right before he scored his eighth goal 10 seconds into the third period. Duchene's pass went off Johnston and past Soderblom, giving the Stars a 3-1 lead. The Stars are 12-3-0 against the Blackhawks since the 2021-22 season. Dallas opens a three-game homestand on Tuesday night against Buffalo. Chicago plays St. Louis on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhlBears QB Caleb Williams' interception-less streak isn't worth preserving

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground's Record Attendance Breaks 87-Year-Old All-Time RecordNone

“It is with immense pride and joy that I join you today tocelebrate your remarkable achievement for Zimbabwe’s soccer fraternity andsport as a whole. This follows the qualification of Zimbabwe, through you, ourbeloved National Senior Men’s Soccer Team, “The Warriors” for the Africa Cup ofNations 2025 Tournament, to be held in Morocco. “I extend my hearty congratulations to each member of theteam, the coaching and technical staff, as well as everyone who contributed tothis incredible journey. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering spirit ofpatriotism has brought honour to our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said. The President said individually and collectively, theWarriors have demonstrated “what it means to believe in ourselves and torealise success through resilience, determination and sheer hard work. As yourPresident and the Government at large, and indeed the people of Zimbabwe, weare extremely proud of you.” He added, “Undoubtedly, the Warriors’ qualification for the2025 AFCON Morocco Finals will go a long way in the annals of the sportinghistory in Zimbabwe. This is not only a milestone but a significant sportingstride, clearly exhibiting sporting excellence, coupled with astute sportdiplomacy. “This achievement is a beacon of hope for our youth andsends a powerful message that, with focus and teamwork, our nation can reachgreater heights across any social and economic sphere. The accomplishment you,the Warriors realised, has inspired countless young athletes across our nationto pursue their sporting dreams; to work hard; and to believe that they too canexcel.” He urged the national team to remain steadfast, patrioticand good ambassadors of the country as they prepare for the tournament ahead.Washington, on the rebound from loss to rival, takes on NJITNew York Times didn't publish 'anti-Israeli' headline about Luigi Mangione | Fact check

With a focus on human rights, US policy toward Latin America under Jimmy Carter briefly tempered a long tradition of interventionism in a key sphere of American influence, analysts say. Carter, who died Sunday at the age of 100, defied the furor of US conservatives to negotiate the handover of the Panama Canal to Panamanian control, suspended aid to multiple authoritarian governments in the region, and even attempted to normalize relations with Cuba. Carter's resolve to chart a course toward democracy and diplomacy, however, was severely tested in Central America and Cuba, where he was forced to balance his human rights priorities with pressure from adversaries to combat the spread of communism amid the Cold War standoff with the Soviet Union. "Latin America was fundamental and his global policy was oriented toward human rights, democratic values and multilateral cooperation," political analyst Michael Shifter of the Inter-American Dialogue, a think tank in Washington, told AFP. During his 1977-1981 administration, which was sandwiched between the Republican presidencies of Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan, the Democrat sought to take a step back from US alignment with right-wing dictatorships in Latin America. An important symbol of Carter's approach was the signing of two treaties in 1977 to officially turn over the Panama Canal in 1999. "Jimmy Carter understood that if he did not return the canal to Panama, the relationship between the United States and Panama could lead to a new crisis in a country where Washington could not afford the luxury of instability," said Luis Guillermo Solis, a political scientist and former president of Costa Rica. Carter called the decision, which was wildly unpopular back home, "the most difficult political challenge I ever had," as he accepted Panama's highest honor in 2016. He also hailed the move as "a notable achievement of moving toward democracy and freedom." During his term, Carter opted not to support Nicaraguan strongman Anastasio Somoza, who was subsequently overthrown by the leftist Sandinista Front in 1979. But in El Salvador, the American president had to "make a very uncomfortable pact with the government," said Shifter. To prevent communists from taking power, Carter resumed US military assistance for a junta which then became more radical, engaging in civilian massacres and plunging El Salvador into a long civil war. Carter took a critical approach to South American dictatorships in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay, suspending arms deliveries and imposing sanctions in some cases. But his efforts "did not achieve any progress in terms of democratization," said Argentine political scientist Rosendo Fraga. The American president also tried to normalize relations with Cuba 15 years after the missile crisis. He relaxed sanctions that had been in force since 1962, supported secret talks and enabled limited diplomatic representation in both countries. "With him, for the first time, the possibility of dialogue rather than confrontation as a framework for political relations opened up," Jesus Arboleya, a former Cuban diplomat, told AFP. But in 1980, a mass exodus of 125,000 Cubans to the United States, with Fidel Castro's blessing, created an unexpected crisis. It "hurt Carter politically with the swarm of unexpected immigrants," said Jennifer McCoy, a professor of political science at Georgia State University. Castro continued to support Soviet-backed African governments and even deployed troops against Washington's wishes, finally putting an end to the normalization process. However, more than 20 years later, Carter made a historic visit to Havana as ex-president, at the time becoming the highest-profile American politician to set foot on Cuban soil since 1959. During the 2002 visit, "he made a bold call for the US to lift its embargo, but he also called on Castro to embrace democratic opening," said McCoy, who was part of the US delegation for the trip, during which Castro encouraged Carter to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Cuban All-Star baseball game. "Castro was sitting in the front row and we were afraid he would rise to give a long rebuttal to Carter's speech. But he didn't. He just said, 'Let's go to the ball game.'" In the years following Carter's presidency, Ronald Reagan (1981-1989) would go on to resume a full-frontal confrontation with Cuba. Decades later, Barack Obama (2009-2017) opened a new phase of measured normalization, which Donald Trump (2017-2021) brought to an end. US President Joe Biden promised to review US policy toward Cuba, but hardened his stance after Havana cracked down on anti-government protests in 2021. "Carter showed that engagement and diplomacy are more fruitful than isolation," McCoy said. bur-lp-rd-jb/lbc/mlr/bfm/sst/bbkTrump says H-1B visa program is ‘great' amid MAGA feud over tech workers