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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria.&nbsp;

Blinken visited Iraq just after leaving Turkey and met Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.

He said he told Sudani of "our commitment to working with Iraq on security and always working for Iraq's sovereignty, to make sure that that is strengthened and preserved".

"I think this is a moment as well for Iraq to reinforce its sovereignty as well as its stability, security and success going forward," he further added.

<h2>Syria celebrates 'Friday of victory'</h2>

Meanwhile, in Syria, people celebrated the "Friday of victory" after Assad's ouster with thousands taking to the streets across multiple&nbsp;cities.&nbsp; 
 
Watch |&nbsp;&nbsp;Israel Prepares Plan to Target Iran's Nuclear Facilities

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/reports-israel-prepares-plan-to-target-irans-nuclear-facilities-783803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammed al-Jolani called on Syrians "to go to the streets to express their joy" on Friday to mark "the victory of the blessed revolution".&nbsp;

Interim Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir addressed the crowd outside Damascus' landmark Umayyad Mosque and said ‘It is the birth of a nation’.&nbsp;

People in the crowd were seen raising the Syrian flag and chanting "The Syrian people are one!"

A 52-year-old Syrian man Khalil Rimo told news agency AFP, "I still feel like I'm dreaming".&nbsp;

"I still can't believe that I'm standing next to the Umayyad Mosque... and there are no government thugs," he further added.&nbsp;

"We are gathering because we're happy Syria has been freed, we're happy to have been liberated from the prison in which we lived," another Syrian told AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel to 'remain' in&nbsp;buffer zone</h2>

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ordered the country's military&nbsp;on Friday (Dec 13) to "prepare to remain" throughout the winter in the United Nations (UN)-patrolled buffer zone at the Israel-Syria border.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamaica-proposes-bill-to-remove-king-charles-as-head-state-and-become-a-republic-783796">Jamaica proposes bill to remove King Charles as head state and become a republic</a>

Israel captured the buffer zone on Sunday (Dec 8) just after Assad's ouster. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has&nbsp;seized the buffer zone as&nbsp;a "defensive measure" amid the uncertainties in the area.

<h2>Iraq awaits 'actions, not just words'</h2>

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said that his country was expecting "tangible actions" from Syria's new Islamist-led rulers to ensure stability after Assad's ouster.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a surprise visit to Iraq on Friday (Dec 13) and pledged to work with Baghdad to ensure no resurgence of the Islamic State group after the former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad regime's ouster from Syria. Blinken visited Iraq just after leaving Turkey and met Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. He said he told Sudani of "our commitment to working with Iraq on security and always working for Iraq's sovereignty, to make sure that that is strengthened and preserved". "I think this is a moment as well for Iraq to reinforce its sovereignty as well as its stability, security and success going forward," he further added. Syria celebrates 'Friday of victory' Meanwhile, in Syria, people celebrated the "Friday of victory" after Assad's ouster with thousands taking to the streets across multiple cities. Watch | Israel Prepares Plan to Target Iran's Nuclear Facilities Head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammed al-Jolani called on Syrians "to go to the streets to express their joy" on Friday to mark "the victory of the blessed revolution". Interim Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir addressed the crowd outside Damascus' landmark Umayyad Mosque and said ‘It is the birth of a nation’. People in the crowd were seen raising the Syrian flag and chanting "The Syrian people are one!" A 52-year-old Syrian man Khalil Rimo told news agency AFP, "I still feel like I'm dreaming". "I still can't believe that I'm standing next to the Umayyad Mosque... and there are no government thugs," he further added. "We are gathering because we're happy Syria has been freed, we're happy to have been liberated from the prison in which we lived," another Syrian told AFP. Israel to 'remain' in buffer zone Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ordered the country's military on Friday (Dec 13) to "prepare to remain" throughout the winter in the United Nations (UN)-patrolled buffer zone at the Israel-Syria border. Also read | Jamaica proposes bill to remove King Charles as head state and become a republic Israel captured the buffer zone on Sunday (Dec 8) just after Assad's ouster. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has seized the buffer zone as a "defensive measure" amid the uncertainties in the area. Iraq awaits 'actions, not just words' Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said that his country was expecting "tangible actions" from Syria's new Islamist-led rulers to ensure stability after Assad's ouster. (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: Blinken vows to work with Iraq against IS; Syrians celebrate Assad's fall

Tensions rise as China remains silent regarding its military activity near Taiwan, fueling concerns over escalating tensions in the region. The lack of transparency has prompted increased scrutiny from international observers and governments.

China's Covert Action On Taiwan, Silent About It's Activity Near Taiwan

18-year-old Gukesh becomes the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. Gukesh defeated defending champion Ding Liren in a dramatic 14-game match. Watch here to learn more about his legacy!

Gukesh Becomes The Youngest World Champion In Chess History

Pula's Christmas spectacle brings history to life on ice, blending tradition and festive spirit. The event features stunning performances and unique displays, drawing visitors into a magical winter celebration.

History on Ice: Pula's Spectacular Christmas Celebration

Syrians gathered in large numbers for the first Friday prayers since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, marking a moment of joy and hope for many. The event symbolizes a significant shift in the country, with citizens celebrating newfound freedoms and political changes.

Syria: Syrians Gather for Joyous First Friday Prayers After Assad's Fall

South Korea is grappling with a political crisis as President Yoon faces a second impeachment following the controversial martial law saga. The situation has intensified tensions and sparked widespread debate over his leadership.

South Korea Martial Law Row: Calls Grow For Yoon To Be Impeached After Martial Law Debacle

French President Emmanuel Macron was expected Thursday to name a new prime minister a week after MPs toppled the government. Watch this report for more details!

France To Get A New Prime Minister

Sri Lankan Speaker Asoka Ranwala tenders his resignation over the education qualification controversy. Watch this report for more details!

Sri Lankan Speaker Asoka Ranwala Tenders Resignation

The Israeli Air Force is continuing its readiness and preparations for potential strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities, following the weakening of Tehran’s proxy groups in the Middle East and the fall of the Assad regime in Syria. Watch this report for more details!

Reports: Israel Prepares Plan to Target Iran's Nuclear Facilities

In the midst of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, NATO Chief Mark Rutte has raised an alarm over the low defense spending of European nations. At an address on Thursday, the military bloc's General Secretary warned that NATO countries were not ready for the threats they face from Russia. Mark Rutte said that the future spending of the alliance would have to be much higher than the target of 2%. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: NATO Chief Mark Rutte Calls For Increase In Combined Military Spending

The political crisis in South Korea has intensified days after its president Yoon Suk-Yeol briefly ordered martial law to be imposed. Despite public outcry and condemnation across party lines, Yoon has vowed to fight until the very last minute. Watch in for more details!

South Korea's Yoon Vows To Fight 'Until The Very Last Minute'

18-year-old Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh has made history by defeating China's Ding Liren in the decisive Game 14 of the World Chess Championship, becoming the youngest world champion in history.

Indian Grandmaster Gukesh Creates History, Becomes Youngest World Chess Champion | World News | WION

US President Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of roughly 1,500 people who were released from prison and placed on home confinement during the coronavirus pandemic and is pardoning 39 Americans convicted of nonviolent crimes.

Joe Biden Grants Clemency to Nearly 1,500 People & Pardons 39 People

Syria: Joyous Syrians Gather For First Friday Prayers After Assad's Fall

The White House on Friday (Dec 13) said that the United States (US) administration had no evidence that the recent drone sightings in the US state of New Jersey posed a national security or a public safety threat.

The White House on Friday (Dec 13) said that the United States (US) administration had no evidence that the recent drone sightings in the US state of New Jersey posed a national security or a public safety threat. Addressing a press conference, National Security Spokesperson John Kirby said, "We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or a public safety threat or have a foreign nexus." Also read | US citizens in panic as car-sized humming ‘drones’ spotted swarming skies, FBI investigates Kirby said that the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) were investigating the sightings, "and they're working closely with state and local law enforcement to provide resources using numerous detection methods to better understand their origin." 'Reported sightings were manned aircraft that operated lawfully' Citing a review of available imagery (of the drone sightings), Kirby told reporters it appeared that many of the reported sightings were manned aircraft which were being operated lawfully. "The United States Coast Guard is providing support to the state of New Jersey and has confirmed that there is no evidence of any foreign-based involvement from coastal vessels. And importantly, there are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted airspace," he added. "That said, we certainly take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems, which is why law enforcement and other agencies continue to support New Jersey and investigate the reports, even though they have uncovered no malicious activity or intent at this particular stage. While there is no known malicious activity occurring, the reported sightings there do, however, highlight a gap in authorities," the National Security spokesperson further said. Also watch | Drones not launched from Iranian mothership, says US Kirby also urged Congress to pass important legislation that would extend and expand existing counter-drone authorities so that the government would be prepared to identify and mitigate any potential threats to airports or other critical infrastructure. A look at the recent sightings Drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey in recent weeks, starting in November. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began receiving reports of drone activity near Morris County, New Jersey on November 18. Last week, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and New Jersey State Police asked the public to report any information related to the recent sightings of possible drones flying in several areas along the Raritan River. The Pentagon said an initial assessment had shown the drones were not from another country and that the US military had not shot them down because they did not pose a threat to any military installations. (With inputs from agencies)

Drones seen in New Jersey: White House says no proof that sightings pose national security threat

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier.

French President Emmanuel Macron appointed veteran centrist François Bayrou as the new prime minister on Friday (Dec 13) following the collapse of the previous government of PM Michel Barnier. Who is François Bayrou? A prominent figure in French centrist politics, Bayrou has long been a key player in national affairs. His appointment comes after Barnier’s government fell. Notably, Bayrou was widely regarded as the leading candidate for the role. On Friday morning, Bayrou, 73, met with Macron for nearly two hours. Initial reports suggested the meeting was tense, casting doubt on Bayrou’s chances. However, he was ultimately chosen and will now be tasked with assembling a cabinet capable of working with a divided parliament to pass the 2025 budget. Bayrou leads the centrist MoDem party, part of Macron’s parliamentary alliance. His political experience is seen as essential in navigating the current challenges, especially as no single party holds a majority in the National Assembly. Political background and experience Bayrou has been the mayor of Pau, a city in the Pyrenees, since 2014. The 76-year-old has been a close ally of Macron since the latter’s rise to power in 2017. He has run for the French presidency three times, representing the centre. His closest attempt was in 2007 when he secured nearly 19 per cent of the vote, finishing third. Also read: Francois Bayrou is new prime minister of France, announces President Macron Earlier in his career, Bayrou served as education minister from 1993 to 1997, having started as a teacher of classical languages. Briefly, in 2017, he held the role of justice minister under Macron but resigned following allegations of misuse of European Parliament funds. Though Bayrou was eventually acquitted, several colleagues were convicted, and an appeal against his acquittal is ongoing. Bayrou is the fourth prime minister appointed this year, which reflects the political instability in France. In a government reliant on cooperation, Bayrou’s relationships with both the left and right could prove vital. Interestingly, Bayrou has maintained a respectful relationship with Marine Le Pen, leader of the populist right. He once supported her right to run for the presidency by helping her gather the necessary endorsements, arguing it was a matter of democratic principle. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Francois Bayrou? The new French PM set to battle the political chaos

Russia carried out a major aerial strike on Ukraine on Friday (Dec 13) morning, deploying cruise missiles and drones to target energy infrastructure, particularly in the western border regions.

Russia carried out a major aerial strike on Ukraine on Friday (Dec 13) morning, deploying cruise missiles and drones to target energy infrastructure, particularly in the western border regions. The attack is part of a renewed campaign against Ukraine’s electricity network, which has already caused extended power outages for millions of civilians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia used 93 missiles and over 200 drones in the attack. He added that Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted 81 of the missiles, with 11 downed by F-16 fighter jets. Ukraine’s air force also reported that the attack included hypersonic Kinzhal missiles launched from the air. “This is Putin’s ‘peace plan’ – destroy everything. This is how he wants negotiations, by terrorising millions of people,” Zelensky said in response to the strikes. Also read: Both Israel, Trump team mulling 'launching strikes' on Iranian nuclear sites Ukraine's Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko praised the efforts of energy workers, saying they were doing everything possible to “minimise negative consequences for the energy system.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for urgent international support, writing on X: “Russia aims to deprive us of energy. Instead, we must deprive it of the means of terror. I reiterate my call for the urgent delivery of 20 NASAMS, HAWK, or IRIS-T air defence systems.” Russia’s defence ministry confirmed the attack, describing it as retaliation for Ukraine’s use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles against a southern Russian airfield earlier in the week. “In response to the use of American long-range weapons, a massive strike was carried out by the Russian armed forces... against critical facilities of Ukraine's fuel and energy infrastructure,” read a statement on Telegram. Kremlin dismisses the possibility of peace talks The Kremlin dismissed the possibility of peace talks, saying its conditions for negotiations had not yet been met. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “We don’t want a ceasefire; we want peace after our conditions are met and all our goals are achieved.” He also added that speculation about a ceasefire was premature, as the prerequisites for negotiations were not in place. Watch: Russia-Ukraine War: Trump 'Vehemently' Opposed To Firing ATACMS Deep Into Russia Peskov also added that United States President-elect Donald Trump’s criticism of Ukraine’s use of US weapons to strike Russian territory aligned with Moscow’s stance. “The statement fully aligns with our position, with our view on the reasons for escalation. It is obvious that Trump understands exactly what is escalating the situation,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russian airstrike targets Ukraine’s energy system in retaliation for US-supplied missile use

Ethiopia and Somalia have reached a compromise deal, signaling a breakthrough in their longstanding tensions. The agreement was finalized in Ankara, marking a significant step towards improved diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Ethiopia, Somalia Agree On Compromise Deal, Agreement Took Place In Ankara

Travis Timmerman, a 29-year-old US citizen, was found barefoot in a Damascus suburb on Thursday amid the ongoing conflict in Syria.

Syria War: Missing US Man Found In Damascus, Was Imprisoned In Syria For Months

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Friday (Dec 13) that Francois Bayrou will be the new prime minister of France. Bayrou, 73, is a veteran centrist leader and a close ally of President Macron.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Friday (Dec 13) that Francois Bayrou will be the new prime minister of France. Bayrou, 73, is a veteran centrist leader and a close ally of President Macron. He is the founder of the Democratic Movement party which has been a part of Macron's ruling alliance since 2017. A report by the news agency Reuters said that Bayrou would be tasked with steering France out of its second major political crisis in the last six months. The priority for Bayrou, a close Macron ally, would be passing a special law to roll over the 2024 budget, with a nastier battle over the 2025 legislation looming early next year. Bayrou is the sixth PM of Macron's mandate Bayrou is the sixth prime minister of Macron's mandate after last week's toppling of Barnier, who became the country's shortest-serving prime minister and lasted only three months. Also read | French President Emmanuel Macron visits Warsaw to discuss Ukraine support Parliamentary pushback over the 2025 bill led to the downfall of Barnier's government. The new cabinet expected in coming days Reuters reported that Bayrou is expected to put forward his list of ministers in the coming days. The new cabinet will have to survive a no-confidence vote in a deeply divided parliament and thrash out the 2025 budget to limit economic turmoil. President Macron hopes that Bayrou can stave off no-confidence votes until at least July when France will be able to hold a new parliamentary election. The previous political positions held by Bayrou Before being named as the PM, Bayrou was appointed the justice minister in 2017 but resigned only three weeks later amid an investigation into his party's alleged fraudulent employment of parliamentary assistants. He was cleared of fraud charges this year. The 73-year-old was a candidate in three presidential elections – 2002, 2007, and 2012. Bayrou has been the mayor of the south-western town of Pau since 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Francois Bayrou is new prime minister of France, announces President Macron

A watchdog has issued a warning to Syria over its use of chemical weapons, urging compliance with international laws. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have targeted Syrian military assets in response to ongoing security concerns.

Watchdog Warns Syria On Chemical Weapons; Israeli Strikes Target Syrian Military Assets

Allu Arjun has been granted bail in connection with the deadly stampede at a 'Pushpa 2' screening in Hyderabad. Watch in to know more!

Allu Arjun Arrested: Telangana Court Grants Interim Bail - What Led To His Arrest?

Indian Ambassador to Estonia Ajaneesh Kumar has said India is looking to firm up ties with the Baltic state in Cyber & Defence domain. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Ajaneesh said ties are 'going in the right direction, day by day' & 'defense, like other tech areas, has been one of the sectors where I see possibilities'. He gave the example of how Rashtriya Raksha University, (RRU) Gandhinagar Gujarat and Estonian company CybExer has signed MoU involving Cyber Ranges. Ajaneesh Kumar is the first resident Indian ambassador to the country. India opened its embassy in Tallinn in 2021 as it increases engagement with the Baltic states. Estonia opened its Embassy in New Delhi headed by a C.d’A in February 2012, with the first resident Ambassador presenting his credentials on 22 February, 2013.

'Global Demand For Estonia's Cyber Security' Says Ambassador Ajaneesh Kumar

India, Estonia Firming Up Ties in Cyber, Defence: Ambassador Ajaneesh Kumar

A Chinese businessman, only known as H6 and a "close confidant" of the Duke of York Prince Andrew, has been banned from entering the United Kingdom. This comes after he lost an appeal against the decision on national security grounds. The man brought the case after he was banned from the UK in March 2023.

The businessman had built a close relationship with Prince Andrew and was even invited to his birthday party in 2020. The man was further told that he could act on behalf of Prince Andrew while dealing with potential investors in China.

Buckingham Palace (The royal residence in London) did not comment on the matter saying they do not act for the prince, who is not a working royal, BBC reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Suspected Chinese Businessman With Close Links to Prince Andrew Banned From UK

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/suspected-chinese-businessman-with-close-links-to-prince-andrew-banned-from-uk-783732/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The hearing of the case was held in the Special Immigration Appeals Commission. The court considers appeals against decisions to ban a person from a country on national security grounds.&nbsp;

In the published ruling, the court said that the then-home secretary, Suella Braverman, was "entitled to conclude that [H6] represented a risk to the national security of the United Kingdom and that she was entitled to conclude that his exclusion was justified and proportionate".

The court further found that H6 surrendered several electronic devices like his mobile phone when he was stopped by UK border security in November 2021. A letter was found in one of his devices in which the adviser of Prince Andrew wrote, "Outside of [the prince's] closest internal confidants, you sit at the very top of a tree that many, many people would like to be on."

"Under your guidance, we found a way to get the relevant people unnoticed in and out of the house in Windsor," the letter further read.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/francois-bayrou-is-the-new-prime-minister-of-france-announces-macron-783742">Francois Bayrou is the new prime minister of France, announces Macron</a>

A document was also found to have "main talking points" for a call with Prince Andrew.&nbsp;The document said, "IMPORTANT: Manage expectations. Important to not set 'too high' expectations - he is in a desperate situation and will grab onto anything."

In another letter, H6 was told that he could act on behalf of Prince Andrew while dealing with potential partners and investors in China.&nbsp;

Based on this, the court said, "H6 was in a position to generate relationships between senior Chinese officials and prominent UK figures which could be leveraged for political interference purposes by the Chinese State".

(With inputs from agencies)

A Chinese businessman, only known as H6 and a "close confidant" of the Duke of York Prince Andrew, has been banned from entering the United Kingdom. This comes after he lost an appeal against the decision on national security grounds.

A Chinese businessman, only known as H6 and a "close confidant" of the Duke of York Prince Andrew, has been banned from entering the United Kingdom. This comes after he lost an appeal against the decision on national security grounds. The man brought the case after he was banned from the UK in March 2023. The businessman had built a close relationship with Prince Andrew and was even invited to his birthday party in 2020. The man was further told that he could act on behalf of Prince Andrew while dealing with potential investors in China. Buckingham Palace (The royal residence in London) did not comment on the matter saying they do not act for the prince, who is not a working royal, BBC reported. Watch | Suspected Chinese Businessman With Close Links to Prince Andrew Banned From UK The hearing of the case was held in the Special Immigration Appeals Commission. The court considers appeals against decisions to ban a person from a country on national security grounds. In the published ruling, the court said that the then-home secretary, Suella Braverman, was "entitled to conclude that [H6] represented a risk to the national security of the United Kingdom and that she was entitled to conclude that his exclusion was justified and proportionate". The court further found that H6 surrendered several electronic devices like his mobile phone when he was stopped by UK border security in November 2021. A letter was found in one of his devices in which the adviser of Prince Andrew wrote, "Outside of [the prince's] closest internal confidants, you sit at the very top of a tree that many, many people would like to be on." "Under your guidance, we found a way to get the relevant people unnoticed in and out of the house in Windsor," the letter further read. Also read | Francois Bayrou is the new prime minister of France, announces Macron A document was also found to have "main talking points" for a call with Prince Andrew. The document said, "IMPORTANT: Manage expectations. Important to not set 'too high' expectations - he is in a desperate situation and will grab onto anything." In another letter, H6 was told that he could act on behalf of Prince Andrew while dealing with potential partners and investors in China. Based on this, the court said, "H6 was in a position to generate relationships between senior Chinese officials and prominent UK figures which could be leveraged for political interference purposes by the Chinese State". (With inputs from agencies)

'Close confidant' of Prince Andrew banned from UK after losing appeal

A powerful bomb cyclone has struck the U.S. Northwest, bringing fierce winds and heavy snowfall to the region. The storm has caused widespread disruptions, including power outages and hazardous travel conditions.

Bomb Cyclone Batters U.S. Northwest With Fierce Winds And Heavy Snowfall

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