uk8217s burnham welcomes
|

UK’s Burnham welcomes Zelensky in first foreign leader visit

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his first official visit with a foreign leader since taking office, reaffirming Britain’s unwavering support for Kyiv.

The two leaders visited a UK naval base to meet armed forces personnel involved in training Ukrainian service members for Black Sea maritime security and counter-mine operations.

During the visit, London announced it would share the intellectual property for “Stone Cloak”, a new military-grade electronic jamming technology designed for drones to evade Russian air defence tracking.

The UK confirmed its total support for Ukraine has reached £25 billion since the start of the conflict, with Zelensky scheduled to travel onward to Washington for talks with US President Donald Trump.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Pakistani hostages make desperate appeal after 100…

    Pakistani crew members held by Somali pirates have made another emotional appeal for government help. The hostages have been in captivity for more than 100 days. They are seeking urgent action for their release. The crew members are aboard the MT Honour 25. The Palau-flagged oil tanker was hijacked by armed pirates off the coast of Puntland, Somalia, on April 21. The vessel was carrying between 17 and 19 crew members. Ten of them are Pakistani nationals. Seven Indonesians, an Indian and a Sri Lankan are also among those being held. In newly released video messages, several hostages appeared weak and unwell. They appealed to the Pakistani government to intervene. Yasir Khan, one of the Pakistani hostages, said several crew members had fallen ill. He said they were facing difficulties in obtaining medicines. Khan urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take immediate action. He also appealed to Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. He asked the authorities to secure their release before their health situation became more serious. Khan also appealed to Jamaat-i-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman. He requested him to continue efforts for the hostages. Another hostage, Hussain Yousuf, said more than 100 days had passed since their capture. He said the crew still had no clear information about when they would be released. Yousuf appealed to the prime minister and Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to intervene. He warned that further delays could lead to serious consequences. The crew has released several messages since the hijacking. In previous appeals, the hostages reported shortages of food, clean water and medicines. Their deteriorating condition has increased concerns among their families. The pirates have reportedly demanded a ransom of around $3 million. However, no confirmed breakthrough has been reported in negotiations. Pakistan’s Foreign Office said the government was closely monitoring the situation. Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said several government departments were involved in efforts to secure the crew’s release. The process includes the Ministry of Human Rights, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and other relevant agencies. Andrabi said the case was particularly difficult because the hostages were being held in an autonomous region of Somalia. He said local tribal structures and influential figures had also complicated negotiations with the pirates. Pakistan, he added, remained in contact with the Somali government and relevant authorities. It was also coordinating with international organisations involved in the matter. The Foreign Office expressed sympathy with the families of the hostages. It said their concerns were understood and that the case remained a priority. The government said all possible efforts were being made to secure the crew’s release and bring them home safely. The case has also been complicated by uncertainty surrounding the ownership of the tanker. Questions remain over who legally owns the vessel. The person previously believed to be its owner was later reportedly identified as a middleman who had helped hire the crew. Meanwhile, the latest distress messages have renewed pressure for urgent action.

  • | |

    Islamabad-bound flights told to carry extra fuel a…

    ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has directed airlines operating flights to Islamabad to ensure their aircraft carry additional fuel on Thursday due to the possibility of delays at the airport. According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the aviation authorities, arriving flights may be required to remain airborne for some time because of scheduled exercises and possible disruptions affecting aircraft movements. The directive advises flight captains to maintain sufficient additional fuel reserves to cope with potential delays during both landing and takeoff operations. The PAA said the precautionary measure has been introduced to ensure safe flight operations and provide aircraft with adequate fuel in case they are required to hold in the air or face delays at Islamabad International Airport. Airlines have been advised to take the instructions into account while planning flights arriving at the federal capital on Thursday.

  • |

    FIFA clarifies proposed Forward Enterprise plan

    FIFA has issued a detailed clarification regarding its proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise project following concerns raised by several stakeholders. The world football governing body said the proposal is still under discussion and no final decision will be made without consulting all 211 member associations. In an official statement, FIFA stressed that transparency and consultation remain central to its decision-making process. It said every member association will have the opportunity to review the proposal and express its opinion before any final approval is granted. FIFA said no single organisation or group can claim to represent the interests of all 211 member associations. For that reason, it said all major decisions must be taken collectively after a comprehensive consultation process involving its global membership. The organisation also responded to criticism suggesting that the proposed project could result in the commercial sale of football. FIFA strongly rejected those claims and stated that football is not being sold under any circumstances. The governing body said it would never compromise the integrity of the sport or transfer ownership of its commercial operations. It added that the proposed enterprise is intended solely to improve the management of commercial activities while keeping FIFA in full control. According to FIFA, the proposal involves establishing a subsidiary company under the FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative. The subsidiary would manage certain commercial operations, but it would remain entirely owned and controlled by FIFA. The organisation said the project aims to generate higher commercial revenue, allowing greater investment in football development programmes across the world. FIFA said the additional income would be distributed among all member associations through its existing development framework. Under the proposal, every FIFA member association could receive up to $20 million in FIFA Forward funding during the 2027-2030 funding cycle. The organisation said the increased financial support would help national football associations strengthen infrastructure, improve grassroots development, enhance coaching programmes and invest in long-term football projects. FIFA also clarified that while the proposal may include external investment, such investment would not affect FIFA’s governance structure, independence or decision-making authority. The organisation said it would retain complete ownership and operational control of the proposed subsidiary. The governing body further stated that the project has not yet been approved and remains subject to discussions with member associations. It emphasised that the proposal could still be amended if member associations recommend changes during the consultation process. FIFA made it clear that if a majority of its 211 member associations do not support the proposal, the FIFA Forward Enterprise project will not move forward.

  • |

    Vaneeza Ahmed reveals menopause impact on her marriage life

    Vaneeza Ahmed, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated former models and actresses, has opened up about her personal experience with menopause and the significant impact it had on her physical and emotional well-being. The former top model enjoyed a successful career in the fashion industry before making a strong mark in acting. Over the years, she appeared in several popular dramas, including Tum Se Mil Ker, Zanjeer, Na Janay Kia Hoga and Tum Hi To Ho. In recent years, she continued to impress audiences with her performances in acclaimed projects such as Ehd-e-Wafa and Kuch Ankahi. Now 55, Vaneeza is married and is a mother of two daughters. She has also become increasingly vocal about women’s health, particularly the physical and emotional challenges women can experience during menopause. During a recent appearance on Nida Yasir’s morning show, Vaneeza spoke candidly about how menopause affected her personality, emotions and relationship with her husband. She explained that she experienced significant changes in her body and struggled with frequent mood swings and irritability. According to Vaneeza, she initially did not understand why she was suddenly reacting differently to situations that she had previously tolerated. Her emotional changes also began creating tension in her marriage. She said her husband questioned what had happened to her, while the lack of understanding about menopause contributed to emotional distance between them. The actress explained that hormonal changes during menopause can affect women’s emotions and responses. She noted that women may suddenly find themselves less willing to tolerate things they previously ignored, which can sometimes lead others to describe them as rude, stubborn or difficult. Vaneeza stressed that women and their families need greater awareness about menopause so these changes are not misunderstood. She also highlighted the importance of paying attention to mental health during this stage of life. Sharing advice with married women, Vaneeza encouraged them not to neglect themselves while managing their family responsibilities. She clarified that prioritizing personal well-being does not mean abandoning relationships, but rather making health a priority. She recommended maintaining a healthy routine, exercising regularly and making time for activities that bring happiness and relaxation. Vaneeza also encouraged women to reconnect with simple activities they enjoyed during childhood. With a lighthearted suggestion, she advised women to turn on their favorite music, dance and simply enjoy the moment. Her message focused on self-care, movement and giving women permission to take time for themselves. Vaneeza’s candid discussion has highlighted the importance of understanding menopause as a natural stage of life rather than treating its emotional and physical effects as a personal failing. Her experience also serves as a reminder that greater awareness and communication can help women and their families navigate this transition with more empathy and understanding.

  • | |

    Ronaldo, Georgina plan grand wedding after intimat…

    Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and his longtime partner Georgina Rodriguez are planning a lavish wedding celebration after quietly getting married in an intimate ceremony at their home in Portugal. The couple reportedly tied the knot on August 11, marking the 10th anniversary of the day they first met at a store in Madrid in 2016. Their private ceremony was attended only by their children, reflecting their decision to keep the occasion away from the public spotlight. Georgina recently opened up about the marriage in an interview with British fashion magazine Vogue, explaining that their demanding schedules led them to choose a simple ceremony at home. She revealed that the couple intends to organise a much larger celebration in the future, allowing their relatives and close friends to share the special occasion with them. Georgina also recalled that she once dreamed of a fairytale wedding featuring a grand palace, a royal carriage, a long wedding dress and a diamond-studded crown. However, she said her priorities have changed with time, and she now values a peaceful and private celebration with Ronaldo and their children. Following their wedding, Ronaldo and Georgina reportedly travelled for about an hour to the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal, where they paid their respects. The couple’s low-key wedding has attracted widespread attention, while their plans for a larger celebration are expected to generate further excitement among fans around the world. Moreover, Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have given fans an intimate glimpse into their long-awaited wedding, with the first photograph from their private ceremony quickly attracting attention online. The Portuguese football superstar and his longtime partner reportedly tied the knot on Aug 11 in a civil ceremony at their home in Cascais, Portugal. Rather than organising a lavish celebrity wedding, the couple chose a quiet family gathering surrounded by their five children and a small circle of loved ones. The setting was reportedly their living room, adding an unusually personal touch to an event that could easily have become one of the world’s most extravagant celebrity weddings. A meaningful Gucci choice Ronaldo and Georgina also made a fashion statement with their wedding outfits, both choosing the luxury Italian brand Gucci. Georgina opted for an elegant white silk skirt suit instead of a traditional bridal gown, while Ronaldo wore a light khaki-coloured suit. Their children were dressed in soft, coordinated shades, giving the family portrait a simple yet polished appearance. The Gucci connection carries special meaning for the couple. Ronaldo and Georgina first met in 2016 at a Gucci store in Madrid, where Georgina was working as a sales assistant. What began as an encounter at a fashion store eventually developed into one of the most closely followed relationships in international sport and entertainment. Why the couple chose simplicity Despite their glamorous lifestyle, Georgina has previously spoken about wanting a more personal family celebration rather than an elaborate wedding. She explained that as a child she had imagined a grand wedding involving a palace, a large procession and a long bridal dress. Her priorities changed over time, however, and she came to value a quiet celebration with her partner and children more than luxury or spectacle. The intimate ceremony appears to have reflected that wish, keeping the focus firmly on family. Is Ronaldo nearing retirement? The wedding news also coincides with renewed attention surrounding Ronaldo’s football future. At 41, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has indicated that the 2026-27 season could potentially be the final campaign of his remarkable career. Ronaldo has said he wants to leave football with a strong legacy, although he has not formally announced his retirement.

  • |

    Pakistan men’s football team set for historic FIFA ASEAN Cup debut

    The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has officially confirmed that the Pakistan men’s national football team will participate in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup later this year, marking a historic milestone for the country’s football. It will be the first time the Pakistan men’s team competes in an official FIFA tournament, where it will face some of the strongest teams in the region. According to the PFF, the national men’s team will make its maiden appearance in a FIFA-sanctioned competition, highlighting the steady progress of football in Pakistan and opening a new chapter in the country’s sporting history. The inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup is scheduled to take place in Indonesia during September and October this year. Pakistan has been placed in the tournament’s top tier, where it will compete against established footballing nations, including India, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. The competition is expected to provide Pakistan with valuable exposure against higher-ranked opponents and help the national team gain experience at the international level. Pakistan is one of only three countries that have received special invitations to participate in the tournament. The participating teams will be divided into two groups, with each side battling for a place in the knockout stages. The event is expected to showcase some of the best football talent in the region while promoting greater cooperation between Asian football associations. PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani described the team’s participation as a landmark achievement for Pakistan football. He said that following the Pakistan women’s national team’s appearance in the FIFA Series, the men’s national team will now compete in its first-ever FIFA event, making it another significant milestone for the country’s football development. Gilani said the FIFA ASEAN Cup would provide Pakistan with an excellent opportunity to test its abilities against strong international opponents. He added that competing against quality teams would help the players gain valuable experience, improve their performance, and demonstrate Pakistan’s footballing potential on the global stage. He also expressed confidence that the tournament would contribute to the long-term growth of football in Pakistan by giving players international exposure and motivating young athletes to pursue the sport professionally. According to him, participation in prestigious international competitions is essential for improving the country’s FIFA ranking and strengthening the national football structure. The confirmation of Pakistan’s participation has generated excitement among football fans, who view the tournament as an important opportunity for the national team to make its mark internationally. Supporters are hopeful that the players will deliver competitive performances and represent Pakistan with pride against some of Asia’s leading football nations. The announcement also reinforces the Pakistan Football Federation’s commitment to expanding the country’s presence in international football. Officials believe that regular participation in global and regional tournaments will accelerate the development of the sport and create more opportunities for Pakistani footballers. The Pakistan Football Federation has now formally confirmed the news, ending speculation and officially announcing the national team’s inclusion in the prestigious tournament. As preparations begin, the Pakistan men’s national team will focus on strengthening its squad and improving its performance ahead of the historic competition. The FIFA ASEAN Cup represents more than just another tournament—it marks Pakistan’s first step into FIFA men’s tournament football and offers a chance to compete on one of the biggest regional stages in the sport.

Leave a Reply

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