victoria david beckham
|

Victoria, David Beckham return to Portofino, where love began

ByJustpaste.in

Victoria and David Beckham are revisiting cherished early memories from their romance. The couple returned to Portofino, nearly three decades after their relationship first began there.

The Italian town holds special meaning for the pair, marking the site of their very first trip together back in 1997. Victoria shared two photos from the nostalgic getaway on Instagram, writing that they were back where it all started, alongside a message of love for her husband.

David also shared his own tribute, posting a video and photo capturing moments from the trip. The clip showed Victoria stepping into the Hotel Splendido, the same luxury hotel where the couple stayed during their original 1997 visit.

In his caption, David reflected on how the pair had come to Portofino 29 years earlier, at a time when no one yet knew they were dating. He noted they were now back at the very same spot.

At the time of that first trip, both were quickly becoming major public figures, Victoria through the Spice Girls and David through his rise at Manchester United. Despite their growing fame, the couple had kept the relationship private during that early stage.

Portofino later became so meaningful to the couple that Victoria named one of her fragrances after it, calling the scent “Portofino ’97” in tribute to that first getaway.

Even after nearly 30 years together, the Beckhams remain openly affectionate, frequently sharing loving tributes to one another online. Their latest trip appears to be another example of that enduring bond.

Victoria and David first began dating in 1997, after she attended one of his Manchester United matches. Their relationship quickly drew intense media attention, with the pair soon nicknamed “Posh and Becks.”

They married on July 4, 1999, at Luttrellstown Castle in Ireland. The couple share four children together: Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper Seven Beckham.

Their return to Portofino offers fans a rare, sentimental glimpse into the early chapter of one of entertainment’s most enduring celebrity relationships.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    US appeals court allows thousands of social media …

    ByJustpaste.in

    SAN FRANCISCO: A US appeals court has cleared the way for thousands of lawsuits against major social media companies, including Meta Platforms, Google parent Alphabet, TikTok owner ByteDance and Snap, rejecting an attempt by the technology firms to use federal online protections to halt litigation over allegations that their platforms are deliberately designed to keep young users hooked. The ruling was issued Monday by the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals, which declined to immediately consider an appeal filed by Meta and TikTok challenging a lower court decision that had allowed more than 3,000 lawsuits to continue in federal court. The lawsuits, brought by parents, children, school districts, local governments and state authorities, accuse social media companies of designing products and features that encourage excessive use among children and teenagers. Plaintiffs argue that the companies were aware of potential risks associated with prolonged social media use but failed to adequately protect young users or warn families about those risks. At the center of the companies’ legal argument is Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996. The law generally protects online platforms from being held liable for content created and posted by their users. Meta and TikTok argued that the protection should also prevent lawsuits alleging that the companies failed to warn users about the allegedly addictive characteristics of their platforms. However, the appeals court determined that the companies had sought appellate review too soon. The court said Section 230 provides a defense against liability but does not give companies immunity from having to defend themselves in litigation. As a result, the companies cannot use the current appeal to stop the cases from proceeding through the lower courts. Meta’s attempt to delay multistate trial rejected The appeals court also rejected Meta’s request to postpone a major trial involving 29 US states. The case, brought by state attorneys general, accuses Meta of unlawfully collecting and using information relating to children, designing its platforms to encourage young users to remain engaged for extended periods and making misleading statements concerning the safety of its services. Meta had sought to delay the trial while its appeal concerning Section 230 was pending. The court rejected that request, meaning the proceedings can move forward as scheduled. The development represents another significant legal challenge for Meta, which has faced growing scrutiny from regulators, lawmakers and families over the impact of its platforms on children and teenagers. A Meta spokesperson declined to comment on the appeals court’s decision. TikTok representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Lawyers say trials could reveal what companies knew Attorneys representing thousands of individuals and school districts involved in the federal litigation welcomed the ruling. Lawyers Lexi Hazam and Previn Warren said the decision would allow the multistate case to proceed and would also clear the path for a separate trial involving school districts that is scheduled for February. The attorneys said court proceedings could provide the public with evidence about what social media companies knew regarding the potential effects of their products on children, when they became aware of those concerns and how they responded. The lawsuits have become part of a much broader legal battle in the United States over the responsibilities of technology companies toward minors. Plaintiffs contend that social media platforms can contribute to serious problems among young people, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders and concerns about body image. They argue that companies intentionally use features such as recommendation algorithms, notifications and engagement mechanisms to encourage repeated and prolonged use. The technology companies have generally denied allegations that they deliberately designed their platforms to harm children. Thousands of cases consolidated The federal lawsuits have been centralized before US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California. The cases involve claims brought by a wide range of plaintiffs, including families, school districts, municipalities and state governments. They seek financial damages, penalties and other forms of relief from the technology companies. Meta and TikTok previously appealed rulings issued by Judge Rogers in 2023 and 2024 that largely permitted the litigation to continue. The companies also face hundreds of similar cases in state courts. Around 3,300 related cases have been consolidated in California state court, underscoring the scale of the legal challenge confronting the social media industry. Jury verdict adds pressure on technology companies The latest appeals court decision comes after several significant courtroom developments involving the alleged impact of social media on young users. In March, a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google negligent in connection with claims that their social media products were designed in ways that could harm young people. The jury awarded $6 million to a young woman who said she became addicted to Instagram and YouTube after using the services as a child. The verdict was closely watched because it represented an early test of how juries may respond to similar allegations against major technology companies. Meta and Google have denied wrongdoing in the case and said they intend to appeal. New Mexico ruling increases scrutiny Meta has also suffered a major legal setback in New Mexico. A judge in the state recently ruled that the company had created a public nuisance and ordered it to pay $567 million into a fund intended to support teen mental-health initiatives, while also requiring the company to implement additional measures aimed at protecting young users. The New Mexico proceedings followed an earlier stage of litigation in which a jury found that Meta had misled consumers about the safety of its platforms and ordered the company to pay $375 million. Meta has rejected the allegations and indicated that it will challenge the findings through the appeals process. The growing number of lawsuits reflects increasing pressure on social media companies in the United States to explain how their platforms are developed, marketed and operated for younger audiences. The latest 9th Circuit decision does not resolve whether Meta, Google, TikTok or Snap will ultimately be held liable. Instead, it allows the underlying lawsuits to continue, potentially setting the

  • | | |

    Uganda backs sending troops to planned Gaza peace …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Uganda’s Parliament has approved a government proposal to deploy troops to a planned international peace and stabilisation force for Gaza, marking the country’s first commitment to the proposed multinational mission. The resolution was introduced by Uganda’s Minister of Defence and received parliamentary approval following debate among lawmakers. With the decision, Uganda joins Morocco, which has also announced its willingness to contribute troops to the proposed force. The Ugandan government has not publicly disclosed the diplomatic discussions or political considerations behind its decision. However, the move sparked debate in Parliament, with opposition members expressing concerns about the potential implications for Uganda’s foreign policy and regional relationships. Opposition lawmaker Hassan Kiromera questioned the mission’s objectives, asking which parties Ugandan troops would ultimately be expected to confront if deployed. He argued that the government should provide greater clarity regarding the mandate of the proposed force before committing military personnel. Defence Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth defended the proposal, stating that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) possess extensive experience in international peacekeeping operations, including missions in Somalia and other conflict zones. He said that this experience would enable Ugandan troops to contribute effectively to efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in Gaza. According to the report, the proposed Gaza International Stabilisation Force is expected to consist of approximately 20,000 personnel from multiple countries. The force is reportedly planned under a proposal associated with US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace and would be commanded by US Major General Jasper Jeffers. The mission is intended to help maintain law and order in Gaza following the end of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Reports indicate that the proposal was first introduced earlier this year as part of broader discussions on post-conflict governance and security arrangements in the territory. The development follows recent announcements regarding a reported agreement under which Hamas would disarm and Israel would gradually withdraw its military forces from Gaza. Under the reported framework, the international stabilisation force would be deployed after the phased Israeli withdrawal. However, uncertainty remains over the implementation of the proposed arrangement. Israeli officials have reportedly expressed serious security concerns after reviewing the reported agreement, arguing that certain provisions could pose risks to national security. As a result, questions remain about the timeline and conditions for the deployment of the multinational peace force despite Uganda’s parliamentary approval.

  • | | |

    15 martyred in terror attack on joint security Che…

    ByJustpaste.in

    At least 15 people, including 14 security personnel, were martyred after terrorists launched a major attack on a joint security checkpost in Tank district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the early hours of Friday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the attackers attempted to storm the checkpost in a coordinated assault. Security personnel immediately responded with heavy fire and successfully prevented the militants from capturing the position. During the intense gun battle, security forces killed 12 terrorists who were attempting to escape after the failed assault. Officials said the troops displayed exceptional bravery and professionalism while defending the post. The attackers later rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into the outer wall of the checkpost. The massive explosion caused severe structural damage and resulted in the martyrdom of 12 army personnel, two police officers and one Forest Department official who were performing their duties at the time of the attack. The blast also damaged parts of the security installation, while emergency teams rushed to the area to assist the injured and secure the site. Following the attack, security forces launched a large-scale search and clearance operation in the surrounding areas to track down any remaining militants and ensure the area was fully secured. The operation is continuing. Military officials said Pakistan’s security forces remain fully committed to eliminating terrorism and will continue intelligence-based operations across the country under the Azm-i-Istehkam national counterterrorism strategy. The military paid tribute to the martyred personnel, describing their sacrifice as a symbol of courage, dedication and unwavering commitment to the defence of the country. Officials said such attacks would not weaken the nation’s resolve to defeat terrorism. The latest incident comes amid continued efforts by security forces to dismantle militant networks operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan through intelligence-led operations. Authorities have intensified counterterrorism efforts in recent months following a rise in attacks targeting security personnel and public installations. Senior officials condemned the attack and vowed that those responsible would be hunted down and brought to justice. They reaffirmed that operations against terrorist groups would continue until peace and stability are fully restored across Pakistan. Security experts believe militant groups are attempting to target security installations to undermine ongoing counterterrorism operations. However, officials maintain that such attacks will only strengthen the determination of Pakistan’s security forces to continue their mission against terrorism.

  • | |

    President and PM reaffirms support for Kashmir on …

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the people of Kashmir on Kashmir Exploitation Day, urging the international community to play a more active role in resolving the longstanding dispute. In his message, President Zardari said lasting peace in South Asia depends on a peaceful and just settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He stated that India’s actions cannot alter the internationally recognized status of the dispute or weaken the determination of the Kashmiri people, adding that Pakistan will continue to stand firmly with them. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the measures introduced by India since August 2019 have led to increased repression and restrictions on fundamental freedoms in the region. He also accused India of attempting to alter the demographic composition of the occupied territory. The prime minister called on the international community to move beyond expressions of concern and play a responsible role in achieving a fair and lasting resolution to the Kashmir dispute. He also urged India to end alleged human rights violations in the occupied valley and reverse the unilateral measures introduced in August 2019.

  • |

    ECNEC approves Rs1.15tr development projects amid major cost escalations

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The government has approved 16 development projects with a combined estimated cost of around Rs1.15 trillion, including the controversial Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar motorway and the fifth extension of the Tarbela hydropower project, whose cost has surged by nearly 282% from the original estimate. The decisions were taken by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. Several of the projects had previously been considered by development forums and returned with revised costs following delays, changes in scope and rising construction expenses. Of the total approved amount, approximately Rs320 billion represents additional expenditure linked to cost increases and delays, highlighting the financial pressures facing major public-sector development schemes. The government, however, issued only a brief statement following the ECNEC meeting and did not provide a complete breakdown of all the projects and their financial details. The omission of the Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar motorway from the official summary was particularly notable given the political controversy surrounding the scheme. Lahore-Bahawalnagar motorway approved The ECNEC approved the Rs407 billion Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar Motorway project, retaining its original 295-kilometre alignment in accordance with a directive issued by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier this year. The first package, covering an 18.5-kilometre stretch from the Lahore Ring Road to Raja Jang Interchange, was approved at an estimated cost of Rs49 billion through federal financing. The project has faced opposition from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which has raised objections to the scheme and its proposed alignment. Given the heavy financial burden on the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), the ECNEC directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to examine public-private partnership options for sections that could attract private investment. For commercially viable portions, the NHA will arrange its contribution through its own revenues in the form of Viability Gap Funding. For sections that are considered financially unviable, alternative arrangements will be explored, including contributions from the Punjab government, loans or financing from international financial institutions and direct federal funding, subject to the availability of resources. Tarbela extension faces major cost increase One of the most significant approvals was the fifth extension of the Tarbela project, which received approval at a revised cost of Rs316 billion. The project’s original estimated cost stood at approximately Rs82 billion, meaning its revised price tag represents an increase of about 282%. The steep escalation has already attracted scrutiny from government officials. During the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) review, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal reportedly raised concerns over project management, transparency and oversight. Questions were also raised regarding the technical capacity of personnel associated with the project. The Ministry of Water Resources had previously highlighted shortcomings in an inquiry into problems encountered during project implementation. An inquiry into the failure of the downstream cofferdam reportedly concluded that the structural collapse was linked to design changes, inadequate supervision and delayed administrative action rather than flooding. The findings attributed the failure to the shift from roller-compacted concrete to a rock-fill structure, along with weaknesses in project oversight. The incident resulted in delays and financial losses, adding to concerns over the project’s rising cost. The Ministry of Finance also sought an explanation for the substantial increase in the project’s estimated cost. Since the scheme is being financed through international financial institutions, the ministry asked the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) to provide details regarding the mechanism for repayment. Despite the concerns and requests for additional information, the ECNEC ultimately approved the revised project cost. Road and infrastructure schemes The committee also approved the 48-kilometre Khwazakhela-Besham Expressway at a revised cost of Rs116.6 billion. The new estimate is around 47% higher than the original cost. Another interprovincial road scheme aimed at improving connectivity between Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir was approved at Rs29 billion, representing an increase of approximately Rs10 billion over its initial estimate. The Rathoa Haryam Bridge over the reservoir channel on the Mirpur-Islamgarh Road also received approval at a revised cost of Rs10.8 billion. Its original estimate had been only Rs1.4 billion, reflecting a substantial increase over the initial projection. The ECNEC further approved the Lahore Wastewater Treatment Plant at a cost of Rs56.6 billion, around Rs4.2 billion above the earlier estimate. Poverty alleviation and education initiatives The Southern Punjab Poverty Alleviation Project was approved at Rs29.7 billion and will cover 10 districts: Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Bhakkar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Khushab, Layyah, Mianwali, Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur. The scheme includes an additional cost escalation of around Rs6.8 billion and is aimed at improving socioeconomic conditions and livelihood opportunities in some of the region’s less-developed areas. The ECNEC also sanctioned Rs10.6 billion for the Fulbright scholarship programme, under which 816 scholarships are planned. Of these, 550 MS and 141 PhD scholarships will be administered through the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), while the Higher Education Commission (HEC) will provide funding for another 125 PhD scholarships through the PSDP. Water projects in Sindh and Balochistan The Mazarani Dam project in Qambar Shahdadkot, Sindh, was approved at an estimated cost of Rs16.1 billion. The committee directed the provincial authorities to begin Command Area Development alongside construction of the main dam so that the project’s agricultural and economic benefits could be realised during its second phase. The Winder Dam project was also approved at Rs21.6 billion, with the federal government expected to contribute Rs15.6 billion. Meanwhile, the Mashkel Dam in Washuk, Balochistan, received approval at a cost of Rs41 billion. The project will be financed by the Balochistan government, while an environmental assessment report will be incorporated into the official project documentation.w Power-sector efficiency projects The ECNEC approved several schemes aimed at improving the performance of electricity distribution companies. A Rs24 billion project for the Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of Asset Performance Management Systems at Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) was approved. The committee also sanctioned Rs19 billion for the Electricity Distribution Efficiency Improvement Project of Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO). A similar initiative for Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO) was approved at Rs30.2 billion. These projects are intended

  • | |

    Sindh restores Saturday holiday for schools

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh government has revised the weekly schedule for schools, restoring Saturday and Sunday as official weekly holidays for all public and private educational institutions across the province. According to the School Education and Literacy Department, the updated schedule has been approved by the chief secretary and will be implemented in all government and privately managed schools. Under the new arrangement, schools will operate five days a week, from Monday to Friday. To compensate for the reduced number of working days and ensure timely completion of the academic syllabus, daily teaching hours will be extended by one additional hour. Officials said the revised timetable aims to maintain the pace of academic activities while providing students and teachers with a two-day weekend. The latest decision replaces an earlier directive issued last month, under which all public and private schools in Sindh had been instructed to observe a six-day working week from August 1, with classes scheduled from Monday to Saturday. The change comes shortly after educational institutions resumed classes following the two-month summer vacation, which lasted from June 1 to July 31. Education authorities said the revised schedule will apply uniformly across the province and schools have been directed to implement the updated working days and teaching hours accordingly.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *