<p><span class="region">Egypt</span>
<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 21) said that the possibility of reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel is "closer than ever" if the enemy stops setting new conditions. </p></p>
<p>The delegation of leaders from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met on Friday in Cairo to discuss the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. </p>
<p>All these three groups have been holding hostages throughout Gaza. </p>
<p>The Hamas statement read that the factions "stressed everyone's keenness to stop the aggression against our people", apparently referring to its demand for a permanent ceasefire. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroyed-gaza-tunnel-hamas-used-to-attack-soldiers-784724"><strong>Also read: Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report</strong></a></p>
<p>The key area of disagreement in the talks is the nature of the ceasefire deal, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to the fighting, while Israel is seeking a temporary pause during which some of the hostages would be released followed by a resumption of its fighting. </p>
<p>This has been demanded in order to finish demolishing the Palestinian group's military and governing capabilities, an Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel. </p>
<p>Israel has sought an agreement that "ends the military operation". Meanwhile, Hamas is insisting that the text states that the ceasefire will "end the war". </p>
<p>The statement further read that all the sides appreciated the Egyptian effort to strike a reconciliation deal between the various Palestinian factions. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Israel-Hamas War: 34 Hostages Could Be Released In First Phase, Says Hamas Official</strong></p>
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<p>The delegation is scheduled to hold another meeting as soon as possible. </p>
<p>Earlier this week, Hamas said that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive."</p>
<p>Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal.</p>
<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The delegation of leaders from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met on Friday in Cairo to discuss the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. 



Egypt Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 21) said that the possibility of reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel is "closer than ever" if the enemy stops setting new conditions. The delegation of leaders from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met on Friday in Cairo to discuss the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. All these three groups have been holding hostages throughout Gaza. The Hamas statement read that the factions "stressed everyone's keenness to stop the aggression against our people", apparently referring to its demand for a permanent ceasefire. Also read: Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report The key area of disagreement in the talks is the nature of the ceasefire deal, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to the fighting, while Israel is seeking a temporary pause during which some of the hostages would be released followed by a resumption of its fighting. This has been demanded in order to finish demolishing the Palestinian group's military and governing capabilities, an Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel. Israel has sought an agreement that "ends the military operation". Meanwhile, Hamas is insisting that the text states that the ceasefire will "end the war". The statement further read that all the sides appreciated the Egyptian effort to strike a reconciliation deal between the various Palestinian factions. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: 34 Hostages Could Be Released In First Phase, Says Hamas Official × The delegation is scheduled to hold another meeting as soon as possible. Earlier this week, Hamas said that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive." Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Possibility to reach a deal 'closer than ever' if Israel stops bringing new terms: Hamas

<p><span class="region">Saudi Arabia</span>
<p>Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Taleb A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source. </p></p>
<p>A man on Friday (Dec 20) drove a car into the Christmas market in Germany's eastern city of Magdeburg, killing at least five, including a toddler, and injuring more than 200.</p>
<p>The source said that Saudi Arabia warned the German authorities about the attacker after he posted extremist views on his personal X account, threatening peace and security. </p>
<p>The suspect had sympathised with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, local magazine, Der Spiegel reported. However, the magazine did not specify from where it got the information. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-attack-two-killed-60-injured-in-magdeburg-car-attack-police-arrest-saudi-man-785693"><strong>Also read: Germany Christmas market car attack: Five Killed, 200 injured in Magdeburg; police arrest Saudi man</strong></a></p>
<p>Germany's domestic intelligence agency refused to comment on the ongoing investigation.  </p>
<p>Meanwhile, Germany's FAZ newspaper said that it interviewed the suspect in 2019, and described him as an anti-Islam activist. </p>
<p>"People like me, who have an Islamic background but are no longer believers, are met with neither understanding nor tolerance by Muslims here," he said, adding, "I am history's most aggressive critic of Islam. If you don't believe me, ask the Arabs."</p>
<p>Earlier today, German police arrested a Saudi man for the attack. The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006. </p>
<p>Saudi Arabia has requested the extradition of the suspect, however, Germany has not responded yet, according to Saudi Arabian security sources. </p>
<h2><strong>Saudi Arabia condemns attack </strong></h2>
<p>Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry condemned the deadly attack that happened in a German Christmas market on Friday. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | Germany Christmas Market Attack: Car Attack Suspect Taken into Custody</strong></p>
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<p>“The Kingdom affirms its position in rejecting violence and expresses its sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Federal Republic of Germany, government and people, with its wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured,” the statement by the ministry said.</p>
<h2><strong>German Chancellor 'very worried'</strong></h2>
<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed concerns over the attack, saying that he was "very worried" for the severely injured. He further called it a "terrible attack". </p>
<p>“There is no more peaceful, more joyous place in Germany than Christmas markets when people come together ahead of the Christmas festival and spend some time together, drink mulled wine, have a sausage together to relax together,” Scholz told reporters in Magdeburg on Saturday.</p>
<p>“What for a terrible act is that to injure and to kill so many people with such brutality," he said, adding, “We have meanwhile found out that over 200 people were injured. Five have died until now.”</p>
<p>Scholz further stressed that nearly 40 are "severely injured" and that "we are worried for them". </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The source said that Saudi Arabia warned the German authorities about the attacker after he posted extremist views on his personal X account, threatening peace and security. 



Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Taleb A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source. A man on Friday (Dec 20) drove a car into the Christmas market in Germany's eastern city of Magdeburg, killing at least five, including a toddler, and injuring more than 200. The source said that Saudi Arabia warned the German authorities about the attacker after he posted extremist views on his personal X account, threatening peace and security. The suspect had sympathised with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, local magazine, Der Spiegel reported. However, the magazine did not specify from where it got the information. Also read: Germany Christmas market car attack: Five Killed, 200 injured in Magdeburg; police arrest Saudi man Germany's domestic intelligence agency refused to comment on the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, Germany's FAZ newspaper said that it interviewed the suspect in 2019, and described him as an anti-Islam activist. "People like me, who have an Islamic background but are no longer believers, are met with neither understanding nor tolerance by Muslims here," he said, adding, "I am history's most aggressive critic of Islam. If you don't believe me, ask the Arabs." Earlier today, German police arrested a Saudi man for the attack. The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006. Saudi Arabia has requested the extradition of the suspect, however, Germany has not responded yet, according to Saudi Arabian security sources. Saudi Arabia condemns attack Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry condemned the deadly attack that happened in a German Christmas market on Friday. Watch | Germany Christmas Market Attack: Car Attack Suspect Taken into Custody × “The Kingdom affirms its position in rejecting violence and expresses its sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Federal Republic of Germany, government and people, with its wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured,” the statement by the ministry said. German Chancellor 'very worried' German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed concerns over the attack, saying that he was "very worried" for the severely injured. He further called it a "terrible attack". “There is no more peaceful, more joyous place in Germany than Christmas markets when people come together ahead of the Christmas festival and spend some time together, drink mulled wine, have a sausage together to relax together,” Scholz told reporters in Magdeburg on Saturday. “What for a terrible act is that to injure and to kill so many people with such brutality," he said, adding, “We have meanwhile found out that over 200 people were injured. Five have died until now.” Scholz further stressed that nearly 40 are "severely injured" and that "we are worried for them". (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia warned Germany about Christmas market attack suspect: Report

<p><span class="region">Ottawa, Canada </span>
<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest point of his political career, put on his party face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering. </p></p>
<p>He came with a smiling face at the gathering, which was day after one of his most trusted allies, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation. </p>
<p>Even though some members of his own party were calling on him to leave, he stood strong and in a resistant tone addressed the party. </p>
<p>He referred to his "difficult" week, comparing it to a family fight. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-changes-one-third-of-his-team-785679"><strong>Also read: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau changes one-third of his team</strong></a></p>
<p>Trudeau further discussed being "audacious" and "ambitious" in the face of adversity and slammed his political rival, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservative Party of Canada.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the people said that it sounded more like a campaign speech, adding that despite the latest political turmoil, Trudeau looked like he was digging in. </p>
<p>Further, even after the leader of the country's progressive New Democrat Party (NDP) Jagmeet Singh said that he would introduce a motion to topple the current government in 2025, Trudeau's stance did not change. </p>
<p>Notably, the support of the NDP had been keeping the Liberals in power.</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Canada: Khalistani Supporter Allegedly Appointed in Trudeau Cabinet</strong></p>
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<p>As pressure increases on Trudeau for him to resign, some of the experts say that he now needs a new strategy. </p>
<p>Moreover, Trudeau has also been losing some of his popularity. According to a September poll, around two-thirds of Canadians disapproved of him. Only 26 per cent of the respondents said that Trudeau was their top pick for the post of prime minister, keeping him 19 points behind Conservative leader Poilievre. </p>
<p>So far, at least 18 MPs under Trudeau's government have called for their leader to step down. "He's delusional if he thinks we can continue like this," New Brunswick MP Wayne Long told reporters this week.</p>
<p>"It's unfair to us MPs, it's unfair to the ministers and most importantly it's unfair to the country. We need to move on with a new direction and we need to reboot," he added. </p>
<p>According to Long, as many as 50 out of the 153 Liberal MPs want Trudeau to step down immediately. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


He came with a smiling party face at the gathering, which was day after one of his most trusted allies, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation. 



Ottawa, Canada Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest point of his political career, put on his party face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering. He came with a smiling face at the gathering, which was day after one of his most trusted allies, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation. Even though some members of his own party were calling on him to leave, he stood strong and in a resistant tone addressed the party. He referred to his "difficult" week, comparing it to a family fight. Also read: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau changes one-third of his team Trudeau further discussed being "audacious" and "ambitious" in the face of adversity and slammed his political rival, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservative Party of Canada. Meanwhile, the people said that it sounded more like a campaign speech, adding that despite the latest political turmoil, Trudeau looked like he was digging in. Further, even after the leader of the country's progressive New Democrat Party (NDP) Jagmeet Singh said that he would introduce a motion to topple the current government in 2025, Trudeau's stance did not change. Notably, the support of the NDP had been keeping the Liberals in power. Watch | Canada: Khalistani Supporter Allegedly Appointed in Trudeau Cabinet × As pressure increases on Trudeau for him to resign, some of the experts say that he now needs a new strategy. Moreover, Trudeau has also been losing some of his popularity. According to a September poll, around two-thirds of Canadians disapproved of him. Only 26 per cent of the respondents said that Trudeau was their top pick for the post of prime minister, keeping him 19 points behind Conservative leader Poilievre. So far, at least 18 MPs under Trudeau's government have called for their leader to step down. "He's delusional if he thinks we can continue like this," New Brunswick MP Wayne Long told reporters this week. "It's unfair to us MPs, it's unfair to the ministers and most importantly it's unfair to the country. We need to move on with a new direction and we need to reboot," he added. According to Long, as many as 50 out of the 153 Liberal MPs want Trudeau to step down immediately. (With inputs from agencies)

Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long?

<p><span class="region">Seoul, South Korea</span>
<p>Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated.</p></p>
<p>Several thousands protesters supporting Yoon, who are chiefly older and more conservative people, have gathered since the midday Saturday. </p>
<p>Lee Young-su, a 62-year-old businessman said, "These rigged (parliamentary) elections eat away at this country, and at the core are socialist communist powers, so about 10 of us came together and said the same thing - we absolutely oppose impeachment."</p>
<p>The South Korean president has also made claims of election hacking and "anti-state" pro-North Korean sympathisers as justification for imposing martial law, which was denied by the National Election Commission. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-impeached-what-happens-now-all-you-need-to-know-783957"><strong>Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know</strong></a></p>
<p>Meanwhile, protesters against Yoon were also rallying several hundred metres apart in Seoul on Saturday. </p>
<p>Yoon's presidential powers have been suspended, however, he still remains in office. He has not been complied with various summonses by authorities investigating whether martial law constituted insurrection. </p>
<p>He has also not responded to the attempts made by the Constitutional Court to contact him, which decides whether to remove him from office or restore his powers. </p>
<p><strong>Watch | South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Fails to Appear at Corruption Hearing</strong></p>
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<p>The court is planning to schedule its first preparatory hearing on Friday. </p>
<p>The protests by Yoon's supporters as well as those opposing him, were held in Gwanghwamun in the country's capital. </p>
<p>The anti-Yoon protesters gathered in the afternoon, waving K-pop light sticks and signs like "Arrest! Imprison! Insurrection chief Yoon Suk Yeol" to catchy K-pop tunes.</p>
<p>"I wanted to ask Yoon how he could do this to a democracy in the 21st century, and I think if he really has a conscience, he should step down," 27-year-old Cho Sung-hyo at the protest site said.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Several thousands protesters supporting Yoon, who are chiefly older and more conservative people, have gathered since the midday Saturday. 



Seoul, South Korea Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated. Several thousands protesters supporting Yoon, who are chiefly older and more conservative people, have gathered since the midday Saturday. Lee Young-su, a 62-year-old businessman said, "These rigged (parliamentary) elections eat away at this country, and at the core are socialist communist powers, so about 10 of us came together and said the same thing - we absolutely oppose impeachment." The South Korean president has also made claims of election hacking and "anti-state" pro-North Korean sympathisers as justification for imposing martial law, which was denied by the National Election Commission. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Meanwhile, protesters against Yoon were also rallying several hundred metres apart in Seoul on Saturday. Yoon's presidential powers have been suspended, however, he still remains in office. He has not been complied with various summonses by authorities investigating whether martial law constituted insurrection. He has also not responded to the attempts made by the Constitutional Court to contact him, which decides whether to remove him from office or restore his powers. Watch | South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Fails to Appear at Corruption Hearing × The court is planning to schedule its first preparatory hearing on Friday. The protests by Yoon's supporters as well as those opposing him, were held in Gwanghwamun in the country's capital. The anti-Yoon protesters gathered in the afternoon, waving K-pop light sticks and signs like "Arrest! Imprison! Insurrection chief Yoon Suk Yeol" to catchy K-pop tunes. "I wanted to ask Yoon how he could do this to a democracy in the 21st century, and I think if he really has a conscience, he should step down," 27-year-old Cho Sung-hyo at the protest site said. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands rally in South Korea, protesting against President Yoon's impeachment, blame rigged elections

<p><span class="region">Kuwait</span>
<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21). </p></p>
<p>The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City.</p>
<p>PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… <a href="https://t.co/T2qpgJm422">pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422</a></p>
<p>— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870403557297619251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>"Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Humble request to Hon'ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office ?</p>
<p>Cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sjaishankaroffc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sjaishankaroffc</a></p>
<p>— Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) <a href="https://twitter.com/_ShreyaJuneja/status/1870008417991176448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today. </p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Absolutely! I look forward to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> Ji in Kuwait today. <a href="https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY">https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY</a></p>
<p>— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870335738312561095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..."</p>
<p>PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. </p>
<p>Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-chapter-in-making-pm-modi-arrives-in-kuwait-to-a-warm-welcome-from-deputy-pm-top-kuwaiti-leaders-785801"><strong>Also read: 'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years</strong></a></p>
<p>The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence &amp; Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait &amp; several other Ministers &amp; dignitaries at the airport."</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties</strong></p>
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<p>Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture. </p>
<p>Modi will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders. </p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. 



Kuwait Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21). The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City. PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422 — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × "Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X. Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office ? Cc: @PMOIndia @sjaishankaroffc — Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) December 20, 2024 × Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today. Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait today. https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 × The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..." PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior. Also read: 'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence & Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait & several other Ministers & dignitaries at the airport." Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties × Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture. Modi will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: PM Modi meets 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait on his granddaughter's request

<p>In Germany, a deadly car attack on a Christmas market on Friday (Dec 20) killed at least five, including a toddler, and injured more than 200. According to reports Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Table A, the man suspected of the car attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kuwait on Saturday and addressed the “Hala Modi" event where he interacted with the Indian diaspora, and praised them for blending the rich essence of India’s talent, technology, and tradition, leaving a lasting impact on the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-warned-germany-about-the-suspect-in-christmas-market-attack-report-785849"><strong>Saudi Arabia warned Germany about the suspect in Christmas market attack: Report</strong></a></p>

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<p>Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Table A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mini-hindustan-in-kuwait-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-during-hala-modi-event-785859"><strong>‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472470-pm-modi-in-kuwait-1.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the “Hala Modi" event in Kuwait on Saturday, where he addressed the Indian diaspora, saying, "After 43 years, more than four decades, a PM of India has come to Kuwait. For you all, coming to India takes four hours, but for the PM, it took four decades."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-rally-in-south-korea-protesting-against-president-yoons-impeachment-blames-rigged-elections-785827"><strong>Thousands rally in South Korea, protesting against President Yoon's impeachment, blame rigged elections</strong></a></p>

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<p>Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amidst-political-chaos-in-canada-feisty-trudeau-perseveres-but-for-how-long-785860"><strong>Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest&nbsp;point of his political career, put on a brave&nbsp;face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-reopens-embassy-in-damascus-after-13-years-second-nation-to-reopen-embassy-since-assads-fall-785835"><strong>Qatar reopens embassy in Damascus after 13 years; second nation to reopen mission since Assad's fall</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472457-00036r39jd.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Qatar has reopened its embassy in Damascus, 13 years after closing it during the early stages of Syria’s civil war. The move comes as foreign governments seek to establish relations with Syria’s new leadership.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-10-killed-in-iran-as-bus-falls-into-ravine-state-tv-785851"><strong>At least 10 killed in Iran as bus falls into ravine: state TV</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472466-00036qn6r8.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>At&nbsp;least&nbsp;10&nbsp;people were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;on Saturday when a&nbsp;bus&nbsp;plunged&nbsp;into&nbsp;a&nbsp;ravine&nbsp;in&nbsp;Iran's western Lorestan province,&nbsp;state&nbsp;media reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-claims-it-has-ended-debt-default-says-crisis-was-man-made-785864"><strong>Sri Lanka claims it has ended debt default, says crisis was 'man made'</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413540-wion-images-2024-02-21t235622536.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>With the decision by the Hong Kong-based Fitch Ratings to upgrade Sri Lanka's credit rating, the island nation has officially ended its debt default, the Finance Ministry said on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fresh-attacks-on-hindu-temples-in-bangladesh-multiple-idols-vandalised-arrests-made-785756"><strong>Fresh attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh: Multiple idols vandalised, arrests made</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472402-new-wion-2024-12-21t113748440.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>In a troubling series of fresh incidents, miscreants in Bangladesh have vandalised eight idols in Hindu temples in Mymensingh and Dinajpur districts over the past two days.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-the-complex-and-strained-cricketing-ties-between-india-and-pakistan-785829"><strong>Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472454-explained-the-complex-and-strained-cricketing-ties-between-india-and-pakistan.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>A final decision on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy was made on Monday after weeks of deliberation. Pakistan will host the tournament in February and March next year, but India's matches will be played at a neutral venue. An agreement has been made not just for the 2025 Champions Trophy, but for the entire 2024-27 ICC cycle. India-Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC Events during the period will be played at a neutral venue.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/payal-kapadias-all-we-imagine-as-light-tops-barack-obamas-list-of-favourite-films-of-2024-785788"><strong>Barack Obama shares list of favourite films: Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine as Light is the top pick</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/21/472426-happy-30th-birthday-70.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Barack Obama's list of his most loved films of 2024 is out and it includes Payal Kapadia's&nbsp;<em>All We Imagine As Light</em>. Kapadia's film is one of the most acclaimed movies of this year. Since the movie's win at the Cannes Film Festival, it has been dominating the headlines with its winning streak at several prestigious awards.</p>


In Germany, a deadly car attack on a Christmas market on Friday (Dec 20) killed at least five, including a toddler, and injured more than 200. According to reports Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Table A, the man suspected of the car attack.

In Germany, a deadly car attack on a Christmas market on Friday (Dec 20) killed at least five, including a toddler, and injured more than 200. According to reports Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Table A, the man suspected of the car attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kuwait on Saturday and addressed the “Hala Modi" event where he interacted with the Indian diaspora, and praised them for blending the rich essence of India’s talent, technology, and tradition, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. Click on the headlines to read more Saudi Arabia warned Germany about the suspect in Christmas market attack: Report Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Table A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source. ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the “Hala Modi" event in Kuwait on Saturday, where he addressed the Indian diaspora, saying, "After 43 years, more than four decades, a PM of India has come to Kuwait. For you all, coming to India takes four hours, but for the PM, it took four decades." Thousands rally in South Korea, protesting against President Yoon's impeachment, blame rigged elections Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated. Amidst political chaos in Canada, feisty Trudeau perseveres, but for how long? Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest point of his political career, put on a brave face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering. Qatar reopens embassy in Damascus after 13 years; second nation to reopen mission since Assad's fall Qatar has reopened its embassy in Damascus, 13 years after closing it during the early stages of Syria’s civil war. The move comes as foreign governments seek to establish relations with Syria’s new leadership. At least 10 killed in Iran as bus falls into ravine: state TV At least 10 people were killed on Saturday when a bus plunged into a ravine in Iran's western Lorestan province, state media reported. Sri Lanka claims it has ended debt default, says crisis was 'man made' With the decision by the Hong Kong-based Fitch Ratings to upgrade Sri Lanka's credit rating, the island nation has officially ended its debt default, the Finance Ministry said on Saturday. Fresh attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh: Multiple idols vandalised, arrests made In a troubling series of fresh incidents, miscreants in Bangladesh have vandalised eight idols in Hindu temples in Mymensingh and Dinajpur districts over the past two days. Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan A final decision on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy was made on Monday after weeks of deliberation. Pakistan will host the tournament in February and March next year, but India's matches will be played at a neutral venue. An agreement has been made not just for the 2025 Champions Trophy, but for the entire 2024-27 ICC cycle. India-Pakistan matches hosted by either country at ICC Events during the period will be played at a neutral venue. Barack Obama shares list of favourite films: Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine as Light is the top pick Barack Obama's list of his most loved films of 2024 is out and it includes Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light. Kapadia's film is one of the most acclaimed movies of this year. Since the movie's win at the Cannes Film Festival, it has been dominating the headlines with its winning streak at several prestigious awards.

Top 10 world news: Germany Christmas market attack updates; PM Modi in Kuwait, and more

<p>Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 21) said that the possibility of reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel is "closer than ever" if the enemy stops setting new conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The delegation of leaders from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met on Friday in Cairo to discuss the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All these three groups have been holding hostages throughout Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hamas statement read that the factions "stressed everyone's keenness to stop the aggression against our people", apparently referring to its demand for a permanent ceasefire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-destroyed-gaza-tunnel-hamas-used-to-attack-soldiers-784724"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The key area of disagreement in the talks is the nature of the ceasefire deal, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to the fighting, while Israel is seeking a temporary pause during which some of the hostages would be released followed by a resumption of its fighting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This has been demanded in order to finish demolishing the Palestinian group's military and governing capabilities, an Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has sought an agreement that "ends the military operation". Meanwhile, Hamas is insisting that the text states that the ceasefire will "end the war".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement further read that all the sides appreciated the Egyptian effort to strike a reconciliation deal between the various Palestinian factions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: 34 Hostages Could Be Released In First Phase, Says Hamas Official</strong></p>

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<p>The delegation is scheduled to hold another meeting as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Hamas said that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive."</p>

<p>Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 21) said that the possibility of reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel is "closer than ever" if the enemy stops setting new conditions.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Dec 21) said that the possibility of reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel is "closer than ever" if the enemy stops setting new conditions. The delegation of leaders from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met on Friday in Cairo to discuss the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. All these three groups have been holding hostages throughout Gaza. The Hamas statement read that the factions "stressed everyone's keenness to stop the aggression against our people", apparently referring to its demand for a permanent ceasefire. Also read: Hamas concerned Trump would allow Israel to resume Gaza war after first phase of ceasefire: Report The key area of disagreement in the talks is the nature of the ceasefire deal, with Hamas demanding a permanent end to the fighting, while Israel is seeking a temporary pause during which some of the hostages would be released followed by a resumption of its fighting. This has been demanded in order to finish demolishing the Palestinian group's military and governing capabilities, an Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel. Israel has sought an agreement that "ends the military operation". Meanwhile, Hamas is insisting that the text states that the ceasefire will "end the war". The statement further read that all the sides appreciated the Egyptian effort to strike a reconciliation deal between the various Palestinian factions. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: 34 Hostages Could Be Released In First Phase, Says Hamas Official × The delegation is scheduled to hold another meeting as soon as possible. Earlier this week, Hamas said that talks in Qatar's Doha aimed at a truce and hostage-prisoner exchange in Gaza were "serious and positive." Israel and Hamas have been fighting a war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Since the Gaza war began, Qatar, along with the United States (US) and Egypt, has been working for months to secure a truce and hostage release deal. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Taleb A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A man on Friday (Dec 20) drove a car into the Christmas market in Germany's eastern city of Magdeburg, killing at least five, including a toddler, and injuring more than 200.</p>

<p>The source said that Saudi Arabia warned the German authorities about the attacker after he posted extremist views on his personal X account, threatening peace and security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suspect had sympathised with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, local magazine, Der Spiegel reported. However, the magazine did not specify from where it got the information.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-christmas-market-attack-two-killed-60-injured-in-magdeburg-car-attack-police-arrest-saudi-man-785693"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Germany Christmas market car attack: Five Killed, 200 injured in Magdeburg; police arrest Saudi man</strong></a></p>

<p>Germany's domestic intelligence agency refused to comment on the ongoing investigation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Germany's FAZ newspaper said that it interviewed the suspect in 2019, and described him as an anti-Islam activist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People like me, who have an Islamic background but are no longer believers, are met with neither understanding nor tolerance by Muslims here," he said, adding, "I am history's most aggressive critic of Islam. If you don't believe me, ask the Arabs."</p>

<p>Earlier today, German police arrested a Saudi man for the attack. The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia has requested the extradition of the suspect, however, Germany has not responded yet, according to Saudi Arabian security sources.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Saudi Arabia condemns attack&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry condemned the deadly attack that happened in a German Christmas market on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Germany Christmas Market Attack: Car Attack Suspect Taken into Custody</strong></p>

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<p>“The Kingdom affirms its position in rejecting violence and expresses its sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Federal Republic of Germany, government and people, with its wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured,” the statement by the ministry said.</p>

<h2><strong>German Chancellor 'very worried'</strong></h2>

<p>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed concerns over the attack, saying that he was "very worried" for the severely injured. He further called it a "terrible attack".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There is no more peaceful, more joyous place in Germany than Christmas markets when people come together ahead of the Christmas festival and spend some time together, drink mulled wine, have a sausage together to relax together,” Scholz told reporters in Magdeburg on Saturday.</p>

<p>“What for a terrible act is that to injure and to kill so many people with such brutality," he said, adding, “We have meanwhile found out that over 200 people were injured. Five have died until now.”</p>

<p>Scholz further stressed that nearly 40 are "severely injured" and that "we are worried for them".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Taleb A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source. A man on Friday (Dec 20) drove a car into the Christmas market in Germany's eastern city of Magdeburg, killing at least five, including a toddler, and injuring more than 200.

Saudi Arabia had warned Germany about Taleb A, the man suspected of a deadly car attack at Germany's Christmas market, Reuters reported citing a Saudi source. A man on Friday (Dec 20) drove a car into the Christmas market in Germany's eastern city of Magdeburg, killing at least five, including a toddler, and injuring more than 200. The source said that Saudi Arabia warned the German authorities about the attacker after he posted extremist views on his personal X account, threatening peace and security. The suspect had sympathised with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, local magazine, Der Spiegel reported. However, the magazine did not specify from where it got the information. Also read: Germany Christmas market car attack: Five Killed, 200 injured in Magdeburg; police arrest Saudi man Germany's domestic intelligence agency refused to comment on the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, Germany's FAZ newspaper said that it interviewed the suspect in 2019, and described him as an anti-Islam activist. "People like me, who have an Islamic background but are no longer believers, are met with neither understanding nor tolerance by Muslims here," he said, adding, "I am history's most aggressive critic of Islam. If you don't believe me, ask the Arabs." Earlier today, German police arrested a Saudi man for the attack. The attacker, identified by German media by a partial name Taleb A., is a 50-year-old doctor of psychiatry from Saudi Arabia, who has been living in Germany since 2006. Saudi Arabia has requested the extradition of the suspect, however, Germany has not responded yet, according to Saudi Arabian security sources. Saudi Arabia condemns attack Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry condemned the deadly attack that happened in a German Christmas market on Friday. Watch | Germany Christmas Market Attack: Car Attack Suspect Taken into Custody × “The Kingdom affirms its position in rejecting violence and expresses its sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and to the Federal Republic of Germany, government and people, with its wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured,” the statement by the ministry said. German Chancellor 'very worried' German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed concerns over the attack, saying that he was "very worried" for the severely injured. He further called it a "terrible attack". “There is no more peaceful, more joyous place in Germany than Christmas markets when people come together ahead of the Christmas festival and spend some time together, drink mulled wine, have a sausage together to relax together,” Scholz told reporters in Magdeburg on Saturday. “What for a terrible act is that to injure and to kill so many people with such brutality," he said, adding, “We have meanwhile found out that over 200 people were injured. Five have died until now.” Scholz further stressed that nearly 40 are "severely injured" and that "we are worried for them". (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest&nbsp;point of his political career, put on his party face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He came with a smiling face at the gathering, which was day after one of his most trusted allies, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though some members of his own party were calling on him to leave, he stood strong and in a resistant tone addressed the party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He referred to his "difficult" week, comparing it to a family fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-changes-one-third-of-his-team-785679"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Canadian PM Justin Trudeau changes one-third of his team</strong></a></p>

<p>Trudeau further discussed being "audacious" and "ambitious" in the face of adversity and slammed his political rival, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservative Party of Canada.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the people said that it sounded more like a campaign speech, adding that despite the latest political turmoil, Trudeau looked like he was digging in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further, even after the leader of the country's progressive New Democrat Party (NDP) Jagmeet Singh said that he would introduce a motion to topple the current government in 2025, Trudeau's stance did not change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the support of the NDP had been keeping the Liberals in power.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Canada: Khalistani Supporter Allegedly Appointed in Trudeau Cabinet</strong></p>

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<p>As pressure increases on Trudeau for him to resign, some of the experts say that he now needs a new strategy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, Trudeau has also been losing some of his popularity. According to a September poll, around two-thirds of Canadians disapproved of him. Only 26 per cent of the respondents said that Trudeau was their top pick for the post of prime minister, keeping him 19 points behind Conservative leader Poilievre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, at least 18 MPs under Trudeau's government have called for their leader to step down. "He's delusional if he thinks we can continue like this," New Brunswick MP Wayne Long told reporters this week.</p>

<p>"It's unfair to us MPs, it's unfair to the ministers and most importantly it's unfair to the country. We need to move on with a new direction and we need to reboot," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Long, as many as 50 out of the 153 Liberal MPs want Trudeau to step down immediately.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest point of his political career, put on his party face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, despite dealing with the lowest point of his political career, put on his party face at the Liberal Party's annual holiday gathering. He came with a smiling face at the gathering, which was day after one of his most trusted allies, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced her resignation. Even though some members of his own party were calling on him to leave, he stood strong and in a resistant tone addressed the party. He referred to his "difficult" week, comparing it to a family fight. Also read: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau changes one-third of his team Trudeau further discussed being "audacious" and "ambitious" in the face of adversity and slammed his political rival, Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservative Party of Canada. Meanwhile, the people said that it sounded more like a campaign speech, adding that despite the latest political turmoil, Trudeau looked like he was digging in. Further, even after the leader of the country's progressive New Democrat Party (NDP) Jagmeet Singh said that he would introduce a motion to topple the current government in 2025, Trudeau's stance did not change. Notably, the support of the NDP had been keeping the Liberals in power. Watch | Canada: Khalistani Supporter Allegedly Appointed in Trudeau Cabinet × As pressure increases on Trudeau for him to resign, some of the experts say that he now needs a new strategy. Moreover, Trudeau has also been losing some of his popularity. According to a September poll, around two-thirds of Canadians disapproved of him. Only 26 per cent of the respondents said that Trudeau was their top pick for the post of prime minister, keeping him 19 points behind Conservative leader Poilievre. So far, at least 18 MPs under Trudeau's government have called for their leader to step down. "He's delusional if he thinks we can continue like this," New Brunswick MP Wayne Long told reporters this week. "It's unfair to us MPs, it's unfair to the ministers and most importantly it's unfair to the country. We need to move on with a new direction and we need to reboot," he added. According to Long, as many as 50 out of the 153 Liberal MPs want Trudeau to step down immediately. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated.</p>

<p>Several thousands protesters supporting Yoon, who are chiefly older and more conservative people, have gathered since the midday Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lee Young-su, a 62-year-old businessman said, "These rigged (parliamentary) elections eat away at this country, and at the core are socialist communist powers, so about 10 of us came together and said the same thing - we absolutely oppose impeachment."</p>

<p>The South Korean president has also made claims of election hacking and "anti-state" pro-North Korean sympathisers as justification for imposing martial law, which was denied by the National Election Commission.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-president-yoon-impeached-what-happens-now-all-you-need-to-know-783957"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, protesters against Yoon were also rallying several hundred metres apart in Seoul on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yoon's presidential powers have been suspended, however, he still remains in office. He has not been complied with various summonses by authorities investigating whether martial law constituted insurrection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has also not responded to the attempts made by the Constitutional Court to contact him, which decides whether to remove him from office or restore his powers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Fails to Appear at Corruption Hearing</strong></p>

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<p>The court&nbsp;is planning to schedule its first preparatory hearing on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The&nbsp;protests by Yoon's supporters as well as those opposing him, were held in Gwanghwamun in the country's capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The anti-Yoon protesters gathered in the afternoon, waving K-pop light sticks and signs&nbsp;like "Arrest! Imprison! Insurrection chief Yoon Suk Yeol" to catchy K-pop tunes.</p>

<p>"I wanted to ask Yoon how he could do this to a democracy in the 21st century, and I think if he really has a conscience, he should step down," 27-year-old Cho Sung-hyo at the protest site&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated.

Nearly a week after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached, thousands of his supporters rallied in the capital Seoul on Saturday (Dec 21), demanding his presidential duties be reinstated. Several thousands protesters supporting Yoon, who are chiefly older and more conservative people, have gathered since the midday Saturday. Lee Young-su, a 62-year-old businessman said, "These rigged (parliamentary) elections eat away at this country, and at the core are socialist communist powers, so about 10 of us came together and said the same thing - we absolutely oppose impeachment." The South Korean president has also made claims of election hacking and "anti-state" pro-North Korean sympathisers as justification for imposing martial law, which was denied by the National Election Commission. Also read: South Korea President Yoon impeached: What happens now? All you need to know Meanwhile, protesters against Yoon were also rallying several hundred metres apart in Seoul on Saturday. Yoon's presidential powers have been suspended, however, he still remains in office. He has not been complied with various summonses by authorities investigating whether martial law constituted insurrection. He has also not responded to the attempts made by the Constitutional Court to contact him, which decides whether to remove him from office or restore his powers. Watch | South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Fails to Appear at Corruption Hearing × The court is planning to schedule its first preparatory hearing on Friday. The protests by Yoon's supporters as well as those opposing him, were held in Gwanghwamun in the country's capital. The anti-Yoon protesters gathered in the afternoon, waving K-pop light sticks and signs like "Arrest! Imprison! Insurrection chief Yoon Suk Yeol" to catchy K-pop tunes. "I wanted to ask Yoon how he could do this to a democracy in the 21st century, and I think if he really has a conscience, he should step down," 27-year-old Cho Sung-hyo at the protest site said. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City.<br />
<br />
PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… <a href="https://t.co/T2qpgJm422">pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870403557297619251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Humble request to Hon'ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office 🙏<br />
Cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sjaishankaroffc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sjaishankaroffc</a></p>
— Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) <a href="https://twitter.com/_ShreyaJuneja/status/1870008417991176448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Absolutely! I look forward to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> Ji in Kuwait today. <a href="https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY">https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870335738312561095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..."</p>

<p>PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-chapter-in-making-pm-modi-arrives-in-kuwait-to-a-warm-welcome-from-deputy-pm-top-kuwaiti-leaders-785801"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years</strong></a></p>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence &amp; Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait &amp; several other Ministers &amp; dignitaries at the airport."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi&nbsp;will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM&nbsp;is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21). The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City. PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422 — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × "Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X. Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office 🙏 Cc: @PMOIndia @sjaishankaroffc — Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) December 20, 2024 × Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today. Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait today. https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 × The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..." PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior. Also read: 'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence & Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait & several other Ministers & dignitaries at the airport." Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties × Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture. Modi will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

<p>Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers.</p>

<p>In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in.</p>

<p>“There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels.</p>

<p>Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-hits-106000-amid-trumps-pro-crypto-push-784305"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push</strong></a></p>

<p>In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.</p>

<p>Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment.</p>

<p>But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&amp;P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies.</p>

<h2><strong>Seeking innovative branding</strong></h2>

<p>Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth.</p>

<p>Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&amp;P Global Ratings.</p>

<p>The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans</strong></p>

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<p>But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say.</p>

<p>In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele.</p>

<p>Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.</p>

<p>Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.”</p>

<p>Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.”</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors.

Bitcoin’s soaring value has caught the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, prompting further interest in offering cryptocurrencies as a means of payment to tap into fresh pockets of wealth and build loyalty with crypto investors. Until recently, only a handful of luxury brands including LVMH watch labels Hublot and Tag Heuer as well as Kering-owned fashion brands Gucci and Balenciaga have experimented with crypto payment offers. In recent weeks, upscale French luxury department store Printemps announced it was teaming up with the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance, and French financial tech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies including bitcoin and ethereum in its stores in France – becoming the first European department store to do so. The move, coming as bitcoin rises, has been noticed by other brands and retailers who are showing interest in joining in. “There have been quite a few calls – it’s generated interest,” said David Princay, president of Binance France, who said the company is in talks with other luxury labels. Luxury lighter and pen maker S.T. Dupont told Reuters it aims to accept cryptocurrency payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. Also read: Bitcoin hits $106,000 amid Trump’s pro-crypto push In the realm of experiences, cruise company Virgin Voyages began this month offering its first product accepting Bitcoin as a payment option – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships. Regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited uses in the real world. High volatility has been another barrier to wide adoption as a means of payment. But pledges of support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is expected to bring in more friendly e-currency regulation, have fueled record-breaking rises for Bitcoin. S&P analysts say the narrative is starting to shift, noting that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase predictability for cryptocurrencies. Seeking innovative branding Luxury labels have long sought to cater to affluent shoppers from the tech industry by opening stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and issuing products like the Hermes Apple Watch, for example, which combines signature, stitched leather straps of the French Birkin bag maker with tech giant Apple’s connected timepiece. Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s recent highs – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes as the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years and searches for new sources of growth. Offering cryptocurrency payments can be a way for companies to brand themselves as innovative rather than “a stuffy old brand that’s only selling to the boomers,” said Andrew O’Neill, digital assets lead analyst at S&P Global Ratings. The payment option remains largely symbolic. Retailers usually reconvert the funds to euros or dollars to offset risks of volatility, while for most shoppers, payment methods are seen overall as “something that’s been solved” already by such transaction platforms as PayPal or Venmo, said O’Neill. Watch | Bitcoin Smashes Records as Trump Signals Strategic Reserve Plans × But for bitcoin investors who have seen a strong rise in the value of their investment, luxury goods – a designer handbag or high-end watch – are an obvious choice for diversifying one’s portfolio, analysts say. In a sign of growing interest from designer labels, Balenciaga recently issued a leather card holder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. The black leather accessory, which retails for 350 euros ($368), includes a keychain and Eiffel Tower charm, and an NFC chip fitted underneath the brand logo. Ledger’s Stax Crypto hardware, its recently developed higher-end hardware with a curved touch screen, sells for $399 at Best Buy . The company’s “Flex” hardware, which resembles a mini Amazon Kindle, sells for $249 while the “Nano” version, which looks like a USB key, sells for $79. Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer for luxury conglomerate Kering, has described the group’s strategy when it comes to technology as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see.” He emphasized the embrace of new technologies as key to reaching younger and Asian clientele. Kering’s star label, Gucci, has since 2022 made purchases available through 10 cryptocurrencies for most of its products in the United States. Printemps is working to expand its crypto payments service to New York City, where it plans to open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March. Bitcoin’s rise in late 2021 prompted an initial flurry of interest from luxury brands with Tag Heuer, headed at the time by LVMH luxury scion Frederic Arnault, as well as Gucci, accepting payments in cryptocurrency the following year for some purchases in the United States. One crypto advocate who recently used digital assets to make luxury purchases is Eunice Wong, an investor and influencer known as “Eunicorn.” Wong said she used cryptocurrency to buy several high-end watches this year including an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model. However she is not interested in being drawn in by high-end brands seeking to build a closer client relationship, preferring to bypass traditional retail stores and sales routines. That takes too much time, in her view. “If I will buy, I’ll buy on the secondary market, not through them,” she told Reuters. “I want it now.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Luxury brands to consider accepting crypto payments as bitcoin soars

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