Live · Global · Independent
Live Feeds
PinkVilla
Forbes
NDTV
Hindustan Times
PM’s “Third Term” Pitch, South Push At Grand ‘Ahlan Modi’ Event In UAE
onmynews.com

PM’s “Third Term” Pitch, South Push At Grand ‘Ahlan Modi’ Event In UAE

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a massive cultural programme in Abu Dhabi this evening, applauded the growing synergy between India and United Arab Emirates and the direction it would take in his “third term”.  There were also thanks the expat Indians, who, he said, were responsible for the burgeoning partnership with the Gulf nation he was visiting for the seventh time.  There were also promises that “Modi’s guarantee” will work every time.  

“Modi ki guarantee means guarantee pura hone ki guarantee (Modi’s gurantee means that every guarantee will be met,” he declared at the “Ahlan Modi” programme at the Zayed Sports City Stadium, attended by thousands of expat Indians.

“This is the time to hail the friendship between India and the UAE. In this historic stadium, every heartbeat echoes the same sentiment. Long live Bharat-UAE friendship,” PM Modi said at the event, which started with national anthems of the two countries.

One of the ways, he hinted, was taking India’s UPI to UAE to build a system where money transfers can be made directly.

“India’s Rupay helped UAE develop their domestic payment card. They have named the card Jeevan… Soon UPI services will start here and this will facilitate seamless payment transaction and you can send money to your family without any hassle,” he said.

Over the last nine years, India’s cooperation with the UAE has shot up in sectors like trade, defence, food and energy security and education. The two nations are among each other’s top trading partners, with a bilateral trade of about $85 billion in 2022-23, official data shows.

Yet, the bond between the two nations is of “talent, innovation, culture”, PM Modi said. “Over the past few years, we have given a boost to our ties… UAE is India’s third biggest trade partner,” he added, congratulating expat Indians for their role in the process.

There were words of praise for President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whom the Prime Minister has repeated referred to as his “brother”, for his contribution to the growing partnership.

“The way he takes care of you in UAE and the way he cares about your interests, it’s rare to see that and that’s why people are here to thank him for that. I’m privileged that UAE honoured me with their highest civilian award, this is a honour for all of you,” he added.

Read full article
Valentineâs Day Special: 10 Most Romantic K-drama Couples
onmynews.com

Valentineâs Day Special: 10 Most Romantic K-drama Couples

Get ready to swoon and fall in love all over again as we delve into the enchanting world of Korean dramas. From heart-fluttering moments to unforgettable love stories, join us on a journey through the 10 most romantic K-drama couples that have captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, prepare to be swept off your feet by these iconic pairs who have set the standard for romance on the small screen. So grab your tissues and get ready to experience the magic of love Korean style!

Here are some of the most romantic Korean Drama couples.

Yoo Si Jin and Kang Mo-Yeon – Descendants Of The Sun

Played by: Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo

Yoo Si Jin and Kang Mo-Yeon from Descendants of the Sun are another iconic couple in the Kdrama world. Their love story unfolds amidst the backdrop of danger and duty, as Yoo Si Jin, a special forces captain, and Kang Mo-Yeon, a talented surgeon, find themselves drawn to each other despite their contrasting professions. Their relationship is filled with intense moments of sacrifice, understanding, and unwavering support as they navigate the challenges of their respective careers and the dangers of conflict zones. Their love transcends boundaries, demonstrating the power of love in overcoming adversity. Their chemistry and heartfelt moments captured the hearts of viewers worldwide, solidifying their place as one of the most beloved couples in Kdrama history.

Do Bong-Soon and Ahn Min-Hyuk – Strong Girl Bong-soon

Played by: Park Bo-young and Park Hyung-Sik

Ahn Min Hyuk and Do Bong Soon from Strong Girl Bong-soon are often considered one of the best couples in the Kdrama world for several reasons. Their relationship blossoms from a unique dynamic where Bong-soon, with her superhuman strength, protects Min-hyuk, the CEO of a gaming company, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments. Beyond their comedic interactions, their love story is built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding, with both characters supporting and empowering each other to grow. Their chemistry is palpable, creating unforgettable moments that showcase their unwavering love and devotion. As they navigate through challenges together, viewers are drawn to their genuine connection and find themselves rooting for their happiness, making them a beloved and iconic couple in Kdrama history.

Kim Bok-Joo & Jung Joon-Hyung – Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo

Played by: Lee Sung-Kyung and Nam Joo-Hyuk

Kim Bok-Joo and Jung Joon-Hyung from Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo are adored for their heartwarming and relatable love story. The couple stands out for its authenticity and portrayal of a supportive and genuine relationship. As Bok-Joo pursues weightlifting and Joon-Hyung, a swimmer, discovers the beauty of being true to oneself, their connection deepens. Their journey is marked by laughter, understanding, and encouragement, creating a narrative that resonates with viewers. The chemistry between Lee Sung-Kyung and Nam Joo-Hyuk brings the characters to life, making Kim Bok-Joo and Jung Joon-Hyung a cherished and memorable couple in the realm of Kdramas.

Ri Jeong-hook & Yoon Se Ri – Crash Landing On You

Played by: Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin

Ri Jeong-hyeok and Yoon Se-ri from Crash Landing On You captivate audiences with their cross-border love story. Their romance unfolds against the backdrop of political tension and cultural differences, making it both poignant and compelling. Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean military officer, and Se-ri, a South Korean heiress, navigate the complexities of their contrasting worlds, defying societal norms for the sake of love. Their chemistry is palpable, and the sacrifices they make for each other tug at the heartstrings. The couple’s journey is filled with suspense, humor, and genuine emotion, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and solidifying them as one of the most beloved Kdrama couples. Off-screen, the magic continued as Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin, the actors behind the characters, tied the knot, further enchanting fans with their real-life romance that mirrored the fairytale love story of their characters.

Kang Tae Mu and Shin Ha Ri – Business Proposal

Played by: Ahn Hyo Seop and Kim Se-jeong

Business Proposal revolves around Shin Ha-ri, a food researcher, who helps her wealthy best friend, Jin Young-seo, by impersonating her to go on a blind date. Unexpectedly, her blind date turns out to be her CEO Kang Tae Moo, who then proposes to her. The webcomic of the same name was created by Hae Hwa with illustrations by Narak.

Kook Yeon-soo and Choi Woong – Our Beloved Summer

Played by: Kim Da-mi and Choi Woo-shik

Choi Ung and Kook Yeon-soo of Our Beloved Summer are former lovers who made a pact to never cross paths again. However, fate intervenes when a documentary they made in high school becomes a viral sensation, leading their friend and producer, Kim Ji-ung, to reunite them in front of the cameras. The series delves into their complex emotions and personal development, portraying the journey of falling in love. It tells a tale of attraction, reminiscence, and aspiration, with the romance depicted through subtle and often overlooked gestures.

Kim Min-Kyu & Cho Ji-Ah – I’m Not A Robot

Played by: Yoo Seung-ho and Chae Soo-bin

Kim Min-Kyu and Jo Ji-Ah from I’m Not A Robot embark on a unique and heartwarming journey that defies expectations. Min-Kyu, a wealthy CEO with a severe allergy to human contact, finds solace in Ji-Ah, who is hired to pose as a humanoid robot named Aji3. Their relationship blossoms as Ji-Ah struggles to maintain the facade while developing genuine feelings for Min-Kyu. Despite the initial deception, their love story is characterized by honesty, understanding, and acceptance. Min-Kyu learns to overcome his fears, while Ji-Ah discovers the true meaning of love and empathy.

Noh Ji-Wook and Eun Bong-Hee in Suspicious Partner

Played by: Ji Chang Wook and Nam Ji-Hyun

Noh Ji-wook and Eun Bong-hee in “Suspicious Partner” form a captivating and endearing couple whose love story unfolds amidst intrigue and mystery. Ji-wook, a skilled prosecutor with a troubled past, crosses paths with Bong-hee, a spirited and determined aspiring lawyer who finds herself entangled in a murder case. Their initial encounters are marked by misunderstandings and conflicts, but as they work together to uncover the truth, they develop a deep bond and mutual respect.

What sets Noh Ji-wook and Eun Bong-hee apart is the palpable chemistry and emotional depth portrayed in their relationship. Despite facing numerous obstacles and betrayals, their love for each other perseveres, proving that trust and loyalty can conquer even the darkest of circumstances. Their journey is filled with moments of laughter, tears, and heartwarming romance, captivating audiences with its sincerity and authenticity

Ahn Jeong Won & Jang Gyeo Ul In Hospital Playlist

Played by: Yoo Yeon Seok and Shin Hyun Been

Ahn Jeong-won and Jang Gyeo-ul in Hospital Playlist form a heartwarming couple that captivates K-drama enthusiasts. Their journey begins as colleagues at the hospital, evolving from friendship to love with sincerity and authenticity. Jeong-won, a compassionate paediatric surgeon, finds balance in Gyeo-ul, a cheerful and determined general surgery resident. Their romance unfolds through subtle gestures and shared moments, highlighting their mutual understanding and support. What sets them apart is the natural portrayal of their relationship, grounded in respect, shared values, and emotional connection. K-drama lovers are drawn to their sweet interactions as they navigate the challenges of their demanding careers while exploring their feelings for each other. Ahn Jeong-won and Jang Gyeo-ul’s love story resonates with authenticity and leaves a lasting impression on fans of the genre.

Seo Dal Mi and Nam Do San – Start-Up

Played by: Bae Suzy and Nam Joo Hyuk

Seo Dal-mi and Nam Do-san in Start-Up are a dynamic duo whose love story captures the hearts of K-drama aficionados. Dal-mi, a determined and ambitious entrepreneur, and Do-san, a brilliant yet socially awkward tech genius, form an unlikely bond as they chase their dreams in the competitive world of start-ups. Their relationship blossoms amidst challenges and setbacks, with Dal-mi providing unwavering support to Do-san as he grapples with his insecurities. Their chemistry is palpable, and viewers are swept away by their heartfelt moments and genuine connection.

What makes Seo Dal-mi and Nam Do-san’s relationship special is the authenticity and depth portrayed in their journey. From their initial meeting to the growth of their love, their story resonates with K-drama lovers who appreciate the complexities of modern romance. As they navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and personal growth, their bond strengthens, proving that love can thrive even in the most challenging of circumstances.

See Also: Top 5 romantic K-dramas to watch this Valentine’s Day

Read full article
Nawaz Sharif Nominates Brother Shehbaz For Pak PM Candidate
onmynews.com

Nawaz Sharif Nominates Brother Shehbaz For Pak PM Candidate

In a surprise development, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz on Tuesday nominated its president Shehbaz Sharif as the prime ministerial candidate of Pakistan instead of the party supremo and three-time former premier Nawaz Sharif.

Taking to X, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif, 74, has nominated his younger brother Shehbaz Sharif, 72, a candidate for the slot of prime minister and his daughter Maryam Nawaz, 50, for chief minister of Punjab province.

پاکستان مسلم لیگ (ن) کے قائد جناب محمد نوازشریف نے وزیراعظم اسلامی جمہوریہ پاکستان کے عہدے کےلئے جناب محمد شہبازشریف کو نامزد کر دیا ہے جبکہ وزیراعلی پنجاب کے عہدے کےلئے محترمہ مریم نوازشریف کو نامزد کیا ہے۔ جناب محمد نوازشریف نے پاکستان کے عوام اور سیاسی تعاون فراہم کرنے والی…

— Marriyum Aurangzeb (@Marriyum_A) February 13, 2024

“Nawaz Sharif has thanked the political parties which provided support to the PML-N (in forming the upcoming government) and expressed hope that through such decisions Pakistan will come out of crises,” she said.

The development comes a few hours after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari withdrew from the prime ministerial race, saying his party would support ex-premier Nawaz without being part of the new government.

Despite independent candidates backed by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf party springing a surprise by winning the most seats in Parliament, questions were looming over what the next government of Pakistan will look like five days after the general elections.

None of the three major parties, the PML-N, the PPP, or the PTI have won the necessary seats in the February 8 general elections to secure a majority in the National Assembly and, therefore, will be unable to form government on their own, leading to a hung Parliament.

PML-N reportedly enjoys the backing of the powerful Pakistan Army.

Addressing a press conference here after the meeting of the PPP’s high-powered Central Executive Committee (CEC), held under his leadership, Bilawal has said the reality is that his party does not have a mandate to form a federal government.

“Due to this, I will not be putting myself forward for the candidacy of the prime minister of Pakistan,” the 35-year-old former foreign minister said, adding that PML-N and the independents have greater numbers in the Centre.

Earlier in the day, former prime minister Shehbaz reaffirmed that Nawaz Sharif will become the prime minister for a record fourth time.

“I had said that Nawaz Sharif would become prime minister for the fourth time. And I maintain today that he is going to be the PM for the fourth time,” Shehbaz told a press conference.

Shehbaz said he has spoken to Bilawal and his father Asif Ali Zardari and thanked them for their support to Nawaz Sharif.

“We hope that together we will be able to get Pakistan out of all political and economic crises, Inshallah,” he posted on X.

The PML-N and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) have also held a meeting on Tuesday on government formation.

Both parties agreed to move forward with mutual cooperation and Shehbaz Sharif thanked the MQM-P, which has 17 lawmakers in Parliament for its support.

Bilawal noted that Imran Khan’s PTI had refused to form a coalition with the PPP which left the PML-N as the only party that had invited the PPP to join the government.

Mr Khan on Tuesday dismissed the idea of forming a coalition government with any of the main political parties in Pakistan and termed them as the “biggest money launderers” being brought to power.

The 71-year-old Mr Khan, also the founder of PTI, was speaking with journalists at the high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. Khan and many of his party colleagues are lodged in jail for many months in connection with convictions in multiple cases.

“There can be no alliance with PML-N, PPP, and MQM,” he said, adding that he had directed PTI Information Secretary Raouf Hasan to bring together all parties except the three parties.

Mr Khan also warned his political rivals against the “misadventure” of forming a government with “stolen votes”.

Mr Khan, in a message on his official X handle, posted from jail through his family, said: “I warn against the misadventure of forming a government with stolen votes. Such daylight robbery will not only be a disrespect to the citizens, but will also push the country’s economy further into a downward spiral.” Khan, said, “PTI will never compromise on people’s will, and I have categorically instructed my party against engaging with any political party that has robbed people’s mandate, including PPP, PMLN & MQM.” Earlier, Bilawal said the PPP has decided that “we may not be a part of the government but we will engage with political parties on the issue of votes and the election of prime minister.” He said that the PPP would help to form a stable government without being part of it.

“To that end, the PPP will be willing to support the case of important votes – a candidate of the PM of Pakistan – and issue to issue basis to ensure that the government is formed and political stability is restored,” Bilawal said.

Bilawal said he would like to see his 68-year-old father Asif Ali Zardari become the president once again. Zardari, husband of slain prime minister Benazir Bhutto was the president from 2008 to 2013.

“I am not saying this because he is my father. I am saying this because the country is in a huge crisis at the moment and if anyone has the capacity to douse this fire, it is Asif Ali Zardari,” he asserted.

In response to a question, Bilawal said all political forces needed to think about the country and end the politics of division. “They must not just think about themselves […] this way the enemies of the country would want to benefit from this crisis.” “It takes two to tango,” he said.

To form a government, a party must win 133 seats out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly.

The Election Commission of Pakistan has announced that independent candidates, a majority of them supported by the PTI secured 101 seats, followed by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) with 75 seats, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) getting 54 seats, and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) bagging 17 seats.

Other parties got 17 seats while the result of one constituency was withheld.

Meanwhile, a senior official of Khan’s party said it will use the platform of two rightwing religious parties in its bid to form government in the Centre as well as in the provinces of Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

“Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party has decided to join Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) to form the government in the Centre and Punjab and Jamaati-e-Islami (JI) in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa,” PTI Information Secretary Hassan said while addressing a press conference.

Hassan said the PTI was redoubling its efforts to make a government in the Centre and Punjab.

However, it is believed that by joining the two parties, the PTI will not be able to gather enough strength to form either the federal or provincial government in Punjab. PTI can form a government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa even without the support of any other party.

In a setback to PTI, a Pakistani court on Tuesday dismissed more than 30 petitions filed by Khan’s party-backed independent candidates who challenged the “sham victory” of top PML-N leaders, including former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and his daughter Maryam Nawaz.

The Lahore High Court while dismissing the petitions asked the defeated PTI-backed candidates to move to the Election Commission of Pakistan for the redressal of their grievances.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Read full article
Link copied!