government

Migration: Difficult to reassess areas of Syria as safe, MEP says

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Migration: Difficult to reassess areas of Syria as safe, MEP says

Cyprus is suspending the processing of asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals from Lebanon. The country wants EU partners to reassess the safety of certain areas in Syria to block asylum applications. MEP Fabienne Keller expressed scepticism, highlighting the challenges posed by Syria’s unstable situation and authoritarian leadership. Keller emphasized the need for support for Cyprus, as it faces a high number of asylum applications per capita. Meanwhile, MEP Tomas Tobé called for EU member states to unite and address the migration crisis collectively, urging a common position on Syria. Cyprus wants EU partners to reconsider the status of Syria, as it believes certain areas are safe for returnees.

Around 500 people reportedly stranded on boats off Cyprus

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Around 500 people reportedly stranded on boats off Cyprus

Cypriot authorities are monitoring five boats carrying around 500 migrants heading towards the island’s shores from Lebanon. Two boats were intercepted in international waters, negotiations are ongoing with Lebanon, and the fate of the remaining three boats is unknown. The operation involves Cypriot Marine Police and the National Guard, and the government has suspended the processing of asylum applications amid a sharp increase in the number of Syrians arriving from Lebanon.

Cyprus reportedly pushed back boats carrying 500 migrants

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Cyprus reportedly pushed back boats carrying 500 migrants

Cypriot authorities pushed back five boats carrying around 500 migrants who started from Lebanon, believed to be from Syria. The authorities provided blankets and food before forcing the boats to turn back. It is unclear if the boats will return to Lebanon or try to reach Cyprus again. The Lebanese authorities did not want to take them back, leaving the migrants stranded at sea. The Mediterranean crossing remains the deadliest route for migrants, with over 3,000 deaths and disappearances recorded last year. The Cypriot operation was kept secret, with the Minister of the Interior declining to provide details. Nicosia suspended asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals from Lebanon, citing human rights violations in Syria. Pushbacks involve state measures to force refugees out without following legal procedures.

Interior minister declares war on suspicious voters

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Interior minister declares war on suspicious voters

Fact: More than 3,500 objections had been submitted regarding the registration of voters for the June local elections, with many voters registering themselves at new addresses or suspicious locations.

Chapter 8: Tax Fairness for Every Generation

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Chapter 8: Tax Fairness for Every Generation

Canada is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. For generations, this has meant Canada is a place where everyone could secure a better future for themselves and their children. This is in no small part is due to our commitment to progressive taxation, investments in Canada’s strong social safety net, and an effective, … Read more

Alberta businesses balk at feds’ capital gains tax increase but pleased with several new programs

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Alberta businesses balk at feds’ capital gains tax increase but pleased with several new programs

The text discusses the negative impact of new tax increases on capital gains announced in the 2024 federal budget. Deborah Yedlin, president of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, expressed concerns that the tax increase would disincentivize capital formation for individuals and corporations.

How will the new corporate tax bill impact R&D spending in the US? – The CFO

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How will the new corporate tax bill impact R&D spending in the US? - The CFO

The text discusses the importance of research and development (R&D) spending for innovation, economic growth, and competitiveness in the global market. It highlights concerns about the impact of the proposed tax bill on R&D spending, particularly the treatment of R&D expenses in the tax code. Companies are urging lawmakers to restore full and immediate expensing for R&D investments to incentivize innovation and business growth. Lawmakers are encouraged to consider the long-term benefits of supporting R&D spending and to provide incentives for companies to engage in R&D activities. Collaboration between the government and industry is also emphasized to maximize the impact of R&D investments.

Migrants call for anti-racist protest on Saturday in Nicosia

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Migrants call for anti-racist protest on Saturday in Nicosia

An anti-racist protest has been announced by migrant and local activist groups in Nicosia on Saturday. The protest is in response to racial discrimination in Cyprus and the recent death of a young migrant from Bangladesh. The protest will take place at Solomou Square at 12 noon on Saturday, 20 April. The announcement calls for the recognition of migrants as human beings and the end of stigmatization and discrimination against them.

Cyprus beefs up efforts to stop irregular migration, patrol off Lebanon

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Cyprus beefs up efforts to stop irregular migration, patrol off Lebanon

A Cypriot law enforcement vessel was spotted off the coast of Lebanon as part of efforts to prevent Syrian refugees from reaching the island on small boats. Nicosia has suspended processing asylum applications due to an increase in Syrian arrivals and wants EU partners to reconsider Syria’s status. The presence of the vessel has led to up to five boatloads of refugees being prevented from continuing their journey.

Social media platform X blocked in Pakistan over national security, ministry says

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Social media platform X blocked in Pakistan over national security, ministry says

Pakistan’s interior ministry confirmed blocking access to social media platform X during February’s election due to national security concerns. This decision was made after X, formerly Twitter, failed to comply with government directives and address misuse of the platform. The ban was imposed to uphold national security, public order, and the nation’s integrity. Despite restrictions, some government officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, continue to use X through VPN software. The decision to block X was based on confidential reports from intelligence and security agencies, citing concerns of hostile elements on the platform aiming to create chaos and instability in the country.