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As dawn broke over the Mexican-US border on President Trump's "Liberation Day," truck driver Raul Hernandez expressed concern over impending tariffs that could devastate jobs in Mexico. Hernandez, transporting Toyota pick-up trucks to California, warned that if manufacturers relocate to the US, many workers in border cities like Tijuana could lose their livelihoods. Fellow driver Omar Zepeda echoed these fears, noting that increased product costs could lead to reduced sales and job losses. The region's economy heavily relies on factories supported by free trade agreements, with many families dependent on these jobs. Local business owners, like burrito seller Charito Moreno, highlighted that tariffs would negatively impact the entire community, as cross-border trade is vital. In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced plans for economic reforms to bolster the economy, while some truckers suggested retaliatory measures against US imports. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 2 ameznews.inUS President Donald Trump's recent announcement of widespread tariffs could result in a 1 percent contraction in global merchandise trade volumes this year, according to World Trade Organization (WTO) chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Following Trump's implementation of 10 percent import duties on all nations and higher tariffs on specific countries, including China and the European Union, Okonjo-Iweala expressed concerns about the significant implications for global trade and economic growth. The WTO's latest estimates indicate a nearly four percentage point decline from previous projections, with 74 percent of global trade still operating under the WTO's Most-favoured-nation status, down from 80 percent earlier this year. Okonjo-Iweala urged WTO members to manage tensions arising from these US measures responsibly, warning of a potential tariff war and emphasizing the organization's role in fostering dialogue to prevent escalating trade conflicts. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 11 pmeznews.inIndia is set to send relics of the Buddha, unearthed in Devni Mori, Gujarat, to Thailand for an exposition, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtran Shinawatra in Bangkok. Modi expressed his delight in sharing these Holy Relics, discovered during excavations in 1960 at the site believed to be a Mahastupa, which was 37 feet high and surrounded by monasteries. The relics, contained within a casket of green schist and a copper box, were previously sent to Thailand last year, allowing over four million devotees to pay their respects. Modi received a copy of the revered 108 volumes of the Tipitaka, Buddhist scriptures in Pali, from his Thai counterpart, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 11 pmeznews.inCanada has announced a 25 percent tariff on certain automobiles imported from the United States in response to President Donald Trump's recently implemented tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the tariffs would apply to vehicles not compliant with the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), although the specific percentage of affected imports remains unclear. While Canada was largely exempt from Trump's broader global tariffs, it continues to face levies on steel, aluminum, and other products. Carney warned that Trump's trade policies could disrupt the global economy, declaring an end to the post-World War II era of U.S. economic leadership and collaborative trade. He described the situation as "a tragedy." Last week, Carney and Trump discussed the importance of negotiating future bilateral trade relations following Canada's upcoming election on April 28. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 pmeznews.inPrime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus shared a moment during an official dinner at the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok, where discussions on potential bilateral talks were anticipated. The interim government of Bangladesh is eager for these discussions amid concerns over the country's deteriorating law and order situation since the fall of the Awami League government in August 2024. New Delhi has expressed worries about the rise of extremist elements and the government's leniency towards them, including the easing of visa policies for Pakistani nationals. Additionally, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has highlighted the ongoing violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, urging the interim government to protect these communities. Modi's recent letter to Yunus emphasized the importance of a stable partnership based on mutual respect, as Bangladesh officially assumes the BIMSTEC chairmanship on Friday. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 pmeznews.inHungary has announced its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's state visit to the country amidst an ICC arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a staunch supporter of Netanyahu, dismissed the ICC's authority, claiming its ruling would have "no effect" in Hungary and labeling the court a "political court." Netanyahu praised Hungary's decision as "bold and principled," while Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar expressed gratitude for Orban's support. In contrast, Germany's Foreign Minister condemned the withdrawal as detrimental to international criminal law. Although Hungary's exit may not significantly affect the ICC's operations, it raises concerns about a potential trend of nations questioning their commitments to international justice. Hungary's formal withdrawal will take effect one year after notifying the UN Secretary General. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 pmeznews.inTermination notices issued to staff at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) by a team led by billionaire Elon Musk were marred by numerous errors, prompting the need for corrected versions to prevent potential impacts on pensions and pay. According to multiple sources, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) rushed the process, leading to inaccuracies in employment details, including lengths of service and salaries. Some employees received multiple incorrect notices, with one worker reporting discrepancies in federal service years. The errors come amid a broader strategy initiated by the Trump administration to cut U.S. foreign aid, which has resulted in significant workforce reductions and disruptions to global humanitarian operations. USAID's human resources team has been recalled from administrative leave to issue accurate notices, as the mistakes could jeopardize employees' severance and retirement benefits. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 pmeznews.inIndia and Thailand have officially elevated their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok. The discussions, which aimed to enhance cooperation across various sectors, resulted in the signing of several key agreements, including a Joint Declaration establishing the Strategic Partnership and a memorandum of understanding on digital technology collaboration. Additional agreements focused on maritime heritage development, support for micro, small, and medium enterprises, and cooperation in tourism, culture, and education, particularly involving India's North-Eastern states. Modi emphasized the complementary nature of India's 'Act East' policy and Thailand's 'Act West' approach, highlighting commitments to renewable energy, digital technology, and security cooperation. He also expressed solidarity with Thailand following a recent earthquake and reaffirmed support for ASEAN unity and a rule-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 pmeznews.inThailand has unveiled a special stamp featuring 18th-century Ramayan mural paintings to honor Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit for the BIMSTEC summit, taking place from April 2-4. The mural depicts scenes from the 'Ramakien,' Thailand's national epic, which draws inspiration from the Valmiki Ramayan. During the release, PM Modi expressed his gratitude to the Thai government, emphasizing the deep cultural and spiritual ties that bind India and Thailand, rooted in centuries of shared history, including the spread of Buddhism. He noted the ongoing influence of Sanskrit and Pali in Thai language and traditions. Following a productive meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership, exchanging several memorandums of understanding across various sectors. PM Modi was warmly welcomed by the Indian community in Bangkok, reflecting the enduring cultural connection between the nations. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA dark web platform known as Kidflix, which offered access to around 72,000 videos of extreme child sexual abuse, has been dismantled following a significant international crackdown. Launched in 2021, the site attracted over 1.8 million users before being shut down on March 11, 2025. In a coordinated effort led by German authorities, dubbed Operation Stream, 79 arrests were made, with more than 1,400 additional suspects identified, including direct perpetrators of abuse. Notably, a 36-year-old man was apprehended for allegedly offering his young son for exploitation. The platform allowed users to stream and download horrific content, with an alarming average of 3.5 new videos uploaded every hour. The operation also resulted in the safeguarding of 39 children from ongoing abuse. Europol stressed the urgent need to address the digital threat of child exploitation, highlighting the real victims behind these heinous crimes. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 pmeznews.inA man set himself and his car ablaze in Amsterdam's Dam Square on Thursday, prompting police to suspect a suicide attempt. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a small red car pull up near the National Monument before a small explosion occurred, resulting in flames engulfing the vehicle. Fortunately, no bystanders were injured, although the driver, a 50-year-old Dutch national, sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital under police arrest. Authorities believe he deliberately ignited the fire and are investigating the incident as potential arson, while keeping all scenarios open, with strong suspicions of suicidal intent. The square was cordoned off as police and explosives officers examined the burnt vehicle. This incident follows a recent stabbing attack in the area, where a Ukrainian man injured five people, which Dutch prosecutors described as having "terrorist" intent. 
Published: Apr 03 2025, 9 pm
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