Metascholar News Portal
- Africa , America , Politics
- May 15, 2025
- 622 views
- 3 minutes Read
Deals worth $300bn signed with U.S, says Saudi crown Prince
In a major economic development, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced on Tuesday that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has signed agreements with the United States valued at over $300 billion. The announcement came during the 2025 Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum held in Riyadh and attended by U.S. President Donald Trump, who is on an official visit to the Kingdom. The forum served as a platform to showcase the strength and future potential of bilateral economic ties between the two nations. President Trump’s visit marks a significant moment in the diplomatic and economic relationship between the two long-time allies. The agreements signed span various sectors including energy, defense, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and technology. They are seen as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to diversify its economy under its ambitious Vision 2030 program and attract foreign investment to support national development. During his address at the investment forum, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the enduring nature of Saudi-U.S. relations, stating, “Our countries share a deep economic relationship that began 92 years ago.” He emphasized that the economic cooperation between the two nations has been central to their strategic partnership and continues to grow in both scale and scope. Underscoring Saudi Arabia’s regional economic leadership, the Crown Prince pointed out that the Kingdom is currently the largest economy in the Middle East. He revealed that in addition to the $300 billion in newly signed agreements, the Kingdom is actively pursuing further partnership opportunities with the U.S. valued at approximately $600 billion. These potential ventures signal a strong commitment to sustained economic integration and shared prosperity. The Crown Prince also shared key insights into the history of trade relations between the two nations. He disclosed that the total trade volume between Saudi Arabia and the United States from 2013 to 2024 reached a cumulative value of $500 billion. This figure illustrates the consistent growth in bilateral trade, reflecting cooperation in critical sectors such as oil and gas, defense, aviation, health, education, and financial services. In addition to trade and government-level agreements, U.S. companies continue to play a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s investment landscape. According to the Crown Prince, nearly 25 percent of all foreign investment in Saudi Arabia originates from the United States. This strong investment footprint speaks to the confidence American investors have in the Saudi economy and the reforms being implemented under Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the country’s dependence on oil and expand private sector…
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- Global News , International News , Politics
- May 12, 2025
- 441 views
- 3 minutes Read
U.S. Envoy Signals Continued Tariffs on Canada, But Opens Door to Strengthened Bilateral Relations
Despite ongoing trade tensions and the continued imposition of tariffs on Canadian exports, there is cautious optimism for a more collaborative future between the United States and Canada, according to U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. While speaking in a televised interview on The West Block with Mercedes Stephenson, Hoekstra acknowledged that the tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump’s administration may not be entirely eliminated under a new trade deal. However, he emphasized that the groundwork is being laid for a stronger and more resilient bilateral relationship. Hoekstra, reflecting on recent diplomatic engagements, pointed to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to the White House as a pivotal moment in redefining the tone of U.S.-Canada relations. He noted that this visit underscored mutual commitments to deepening economic and security collaboration. “People have talked about a restart or a reset, and I kind of shy away from that,” Hoekstra remarked. “Yes, we had a few rough months, but we already have strong economic, national security, and personal ties. There’s a deep foundation here.” The ambassador indicated that while full tariff removal is unlikely, Canada can anticipate adjustments in the rates and scope of tariffs currently in place. He drew a parallel with the recent U.S.-UK trade framework, which maintained a 10 percent baseline tariff on certain goods while facilitating broader American access to British markets. This, Hoekstra explained, is emblematic of the type of trade model the Trump administration may pursue with Canada maintaining some level of protectionism while enabling increased bilateral economic integration. Since assuming office, President Trump has imposed significant tariffs on a variety of Canadian goods, citing national security and public safety concerns. These include a 25 percent tariff on key industrial exports such as steel and aluminum, as well as a 10 percent tariff on energy products. Additionally, Canadian sectors like automotive and softwood lumber have faced escalated duties, with the administration linking the tariffs to issues such as cross-border migration and the inflow of illicit substances like fentanyl. Despite these economic strains, Hoekstra conveyed a sense of mutual ambition between the two leaders. “Watching the prime minister and the president, they both want that same outcome a prosperous, forward-looking relationship,” he said. “There are tough issues to work through, no doubt. But there’s a shared vision of building a framework that supports growth for both countries.” While specific details of the potential trade agreement remain under negotiation, the ambassador’s comments signal a pragmatic, if cautious, approach…
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- Africa , America , Global News , News , Politics
- May 9, 2025
- 509 views
- 3 minutes Read
Trump reiterates call for unconditional 30-day Ukraine ceasefire
On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his demand for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine, urging Russia to immediately end its military aggression or risk facing new rounds of sanctions. The renewed call came after a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as Trump attempts to cast himself as a potential mediator in the ongoing conflict. His appeal highlights increasing international impatience with both Kyiv and Moscow over the stalled conflict. In a renewed diplomatic push, U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday called on Russia to agree to an immediate, 30-day unconditional ceasefire with Ukraine, warning that any violations would trigger additional sanctions from the United States and its allies. The proposal, announced following a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, signals Trump’s attempt to reassert U.S. influence in resolving the protracted conflict that began with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire, stating: “Talks with Russia/Ukraine continue. The US calls for, ideally, a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. If the ceasefire is not respected, the US and its partners will impose further sanctions.” The statement underscores Trump’s intention to position himself as a mediator in the geopolitical crisis, amid mounting concerns over stalled negotiations and escalating violence on the battlefield. Trump added that both nations would be held accountable for maintaining the integrity of direct negotiations aimed at ending the war. “Both countries will be held accountable for respecting the sanctity of these direct negotiations,” he declared, underscoring the United States’ expectation for genuine commitment from both Moscow and Kyiv. President Zelensky welcomed the initiative and promptly urged Moscow to respond positively. Writing on social media, Zelensky declared Ukraine’s readiness to implement a complete ceasefire immediately: “Ukraine is ready for a full ceasefire starting right now, from this very moment – a 30-day silence. But it must be real. No missile or drone strikes, no hundreds of assaults on the front.” The Ukrainian leader emphasized that Russia must prove its genuine willingness to end the war through action, not rhetoric. Despite Ukraine’s endorsement of the U.S. proposal as early as March, Moscow has remained unyielding. Russian officials have largely dismissed the plan, viewing it as an unnecessary concession at a time when they believe their forces are gaining strategic advantages on the ground, especially as American military support for Ukraine has slowed under Trump’s administration. In a symbolic gesture, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a…
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Victor Amos
- America , Global News , News , Politics
- May 6, 2025
- 280 views
- 2 minutes Read
“Mark Carney to Trump: Canada Will ‘Never Be for Sale”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stood firm against U.S. President Donald Trump during their first Oval Office meeting Tuesday, declaring his country was “never for sale” as tensions over trade and sovereignty loomed over their discussions. What began as a cordial exchange quickly grew strained when Trump revived his controversial suggestion that Canada should become the “51st U.S. state,” calling it a “wonderful marriage.” Carney, who rose to power campaigning against Trump’s aggressive trade policies, countered with a pointed real estate analogy: “As you know from your business background, some properties are never for sale – like the Oval Office or Buckingham Palace. Having met Canadians across the country, I can tell you definitively: Canada isn’t for sale. It never will be.” Trump, ever the dealmaker, smirked and replied, “Never say never.” The meeting unfolded against the backdrop of an ongoing trade war sparked by Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. Though the leaders opened with mutual compliments Trump praising Carney’s come-from-behind election victory as “one of the greatest in political history” their fundamental differences soon emerged. Observers noted Carney’s tense body language, his clenched hands and bouncing knee betraying his discomfort as Trump dismissed the possibility of lifting auto tariffs: “No. It’s just the way it is.” When Trump again floated his 51st-state fantasy, Carney raised his hand in polite but firm rejection: “With all respect, Canadians’ position on this matter will not change.” The exchange underscored the widening gulf between the neighboring nations, with Carney’s election victory last April widely seen as a rebuke to Trump’s economic nationalism. Despite surface pleasantries, the meeting made clear that while both leaders might desire smoother relations, Canada’s independence remains non-negotiable.
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- Local News , Politics
- April 22, 2025
- 690 views
- 5 minutes Read
President Mahama Places Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on Suspension
President John Dramani Mahama, acting in accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and following consultations with the Council of State, has determined that a prima facie case has been established regarding three separate petitions filed against the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. In an official statement released on Tuesday, April 22, the presidency announced that, pursuant to Article 146(10) of the Constitution and based on the Council of State’s advice, President Mahama has issued a warrant suspending Chief Justice Torkornoo with immediate effect. The suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of investigations by a specially constituted committee tasked with examining the petitions. The statement, signed by the Minister for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, emphasized that the decision was made in strict adherence to constitutional provisions to uphold transparency, accountability, and due process within the judiciary. In line with constitutional requirements, President Mahama has formally established a committee, in consultation with the Council of State, to investigate the matters raised in the petitions. The committee comprises distinguished individuals drawn from the judiciary, public service, military, and academia, reflecting a balanced and credible composition to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry. The members of the committee are as follows: The committee is mandated to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations presented in the petitions and to submit its findings and recommendations to the President in accordance with constitutional procedures. This development marks a significant step in safeguarding judicial integrity and reinforces the commitment of the presidency to uphold the rule of law and constitutional governance. The government has assured the public of its dedication to ensuring that the process remains fair, transparent, and free from any external influence. 4o You said: expand it to like 500 words ChatGPT said: President John Dramani Mahama, in a decisive move to uphold constitutional governance and judicial accountability, has suspended the Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. This action follows the establishment of a prima facie case against the Chief Justice based on three separate petitions submitted for the President’s attention. Acting in strict accordance with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and after due consultation with the Council of State, President Mahama determined that the allegations warranted a formal inquiry. In an official statement released on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the presidency announced that, pursuant to Article 146(10) of the Constitution, and following the advice of the…
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Metascholar News (MNP)
- Local News , News , Politics
- March 3, 2025
- 373 views
- 3 minutes Read
Government Encouraged to Formalize National Economic Dialogue Framework
Dr. Ishmael Yamson, Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue, has urged the Ghanaian government to institutionalize the forum to prevent it from becoming a fleeting initiative. Speaking at the opening of the two-day Economic Dialogue Forum held at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Monday, March 3, 2025, Dr. Yamson emphasized the need for sustained commitment to the dialogue’s objectives to dispel skepticism about its effectiveness. Many stakeholders have expressed doubts about the Dialogue’s ability to achieve its intended goals, prompting Dr. Yamson to advise the government to prioritize the institutionalization of the process. He stressed that this step is critical to advancing the government’s reset agenda and ensuring that the forum translates into actionable outcomes. “There are some who have already concluded that this is just another talk shop with no follow-through. To address these concerns, the government must demonstrate commitment by institutionalizing the dialogue and ensuring its continuity,” Dr. Yamson stated. He warned that delays in implementing the forum’s recommendations could jeopardize Ghana’s economic recovery, emphasizing that the country has no time to waste in addressing its economic challenges. The National Economic Dialogue, a key promise by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to identify and address the major economic challenges facing Ghana. The forum seeks to chart a path toward sustainable economic growth by fostering inclusive discussions among key stakeholders. Under the theme, “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together,” President Mahama is expected to outline his government’s vision for revitalizing the economy during his keynote address. The Dialogue brings together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from the private sector, academia, public policy institutions, and civil society organizations. The discussions are structured around thematic sessions focusing on critical areas such as: The government hopes to leverage the expertise of participants to generate consensus-driven solutions that will boost business confidence, improve infrastructure, and enhance livelihoods. These outcomes are expected to inform policy implementation and provide a resilient framework for long-term economic growth. Dr. Yamson revealed that by the close of the forum on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, concrete proposals will be presented to assist the government in executing its reset agenda. He expressed optimism that the Dialogue would serve as a catalyst for reshaping Ghana’s economic future, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively toward achieving the desired outcomes. The National Economic Dialogue represents a critical step in Ghana’s efforts to address its economic challenges and build a more prosperous future. By institutionalizing the forum,…
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- Local News , News , Politics
- February 28, 2025
- 341 views
- 4 minutes Read
Mahama Unveils Four Key Initiatives to Boost the Road Sector
President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled four major initiatives aimed at revitalizing the country’s road infrastructure. He emphasized that these measures are designed to address the challenges currently plaguing the sector, which he attributes to years of mismanagement. The proposed plans seek to tackle the existing crisis and pave the way for significant improvements in road networks across the nation. President John Mahama has announced a comprehensive strategy to address the severe challenges plaguing Ghana’s road sector, which he described as being in a state of crisis due to years of mismanagement. Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025, as part of his constitutional obligation to update the nation, Mahama outlined the dire state of the sector and unveiled a four-pronged initiative under his “Big Push” programme aimed at revitalising it. The President painted a grim picture of the current state of affairs, revealing that 85% of road contracts have stalled, with contractors abandoning projects due to non-payment. As of December 2024, unpaid bills owed to contractors for work completed between 2018 and 2024 exceeded GHS 20 billion. He disclosed that the Ghana Road Fund, despite securing loans of GHS 600 million in 2018 and an additional GHS 1.2 billion in 2019, still carries outstanding payments dating back to 2018, some as low as GHS 2,000. Current commitments for road projects now stand at a staggering GHS 105 billion, reflecting the scale of the crisis. Mahama attributed the sector’s woes to years of financial mismanagement and poor prioritisation, which have left many critical road projects incomplete and the nation’s infrastructure in disrepair. He emphasised that the situation has not only hindered economic growth but also caused significant inconvenience to citizens who rely on these roads for daily activities. Despite these challenges, Mahama expressed his administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritising critical infrastructure projects to address the backlog of poor roads. The “Big Push” programme, he explained, will focus on the rehabilitation of key roads across feeder, urban, and highway networks. This initiative aims to restore functionality to vital transport routes and improve connectivity across the country. To ensure the sector’s sustainability, Mahama outlined four key initiatives under the “Big Push” programme: Mahama stressed that these measures are essential to reset the sector and make it more viable. He acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead but expressed confidence in his administration’s ability to deliver tangible results. “Our goal is to ensure that Ghana’s road infrastructure meets the needs of…
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- News , Politics
- February 27, 2025
- 388 views
- 3 minutes Read
Bagbin Hails Mahama’s SONA as a Revitalizing Force Amid Ghana’s Challenging Times
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has painted a sobering picture of Ghana’s current state, describing the nation as being at its lowest point. However, he expressed renewed optimism following President John Dramani Mahama’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), which he believes has injected a sense of hope and direction for the country’s future. President Mahama delivered his first SONA on Thursday, February 27, outlining his administration’s plans to revive Ghana’s struggling economy and address pressing national challenges. In a heartfelt post on Facebook, Bagbin did not mince words about the dire state of the nation. “Clearly, our country is not in good shape. The decay is massive. Ghana, an African icon, is at our lowest point,” he stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Despite this grim assessment, Bagbin found solace in President Mahama’s address, which he described as both rejuvenating and confidence-inspiring. “The address of President John Dramani Mahama is rejuvenating. It’s stimulating confidence about quick recovery, resetting, and restoration to a more rewarding investment climate and social justice,” he remarked. Bagbin, a long-time advocate for social justice and inclusivity, particularly praised the government’s commitment to making tertiary education free for persons with disabilities. He described the move as bold and transformative, emphasizing its potential to create opportunities for marginalized groups. “As a passionate advocate for persons with disabilities, I am particularly happy about the bold move of the government to make tertiary education free for persons considered disabled. This is a significant step toward inclusivity and equality,” he wrote. He concluded his post with a prayer for the nation, saying, “God bless our dear nation Ghana!” The Speaker’s remarks reflect a mix of concern and cautious optimism. While acknowledging the deep-rooted challenges facing the country, Bagbin’s endorsement of President Mahama’s SONA suggests a belief in the administration’s ability to steer Ghana toward recovery. His emphasis on social justice and inclusivity also underscores the importance of addressing systemic inequalities as part of the broader national recovery effort. As Ghana navigates this critical juncture, the convergence of political leadership and parliamentary support will be crucial in translating the promises outlined in the SONA into tangible outcomes for the nation. Bagbin’s message serves as both a call to action and a reminder of the collective responsibility to restore Ghana’s standing as a beacon of hope and progress in Africa.
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- Local News , News , Politics
- February 27, 2025
- 355 views
- 3 minutes Read
Mahama Presents Inaugural State of the Nation Address in His Second Term Today
President John Dramani Mahama is set to deliver his first State of the Nation Address (SoNA) today, Thursday, February 27, 2025, marking the beginning of his second term in office. This highly anticipated address comes at a critical juncture for Ghana, as citizens eagerly await the President’s plans to address pressing economic challenges, including rising inflation, unemployment, and fiscal instability. The speech is expected to outline the government’s roadmap for economic recovery and job creation, with a particular focus on the implementation of the much-discussed “24-hour economy” policy, a cornerstone of Mahama’s re-election campaign. Ghana’s economy has faced significant hurdles over the past eight years, with inflation soaring and unemployment reaching alarming levels. Thousands of Ghanaians have been pushed into poverty, exacerbating social and economic inequalities. Against this backdrop, President Mahama’s address is expected to set the tone for his administration’s reset agenda, which aims to revive the economy, stabilize the fiscal environment, and create sustainable job opportunities. The President’s ability to deliver on these promises will be closely scrutinized, as Ghanaians demand tangible solutions to the nation’s economic woes. Central to Mahama’s economic revival strategy is the implementation of the “24-hour economy” policy, a transformative initiative designed to drive industrial growth, boost productivity, and create employment opportunities across various sectors. By extending economic activities around the clock, the policy aims to maximize the use of resources, attract investments, and stimulate economic activity. If successfully implemented, this initiative could serve as a game-changer for Ghana’s economy, providing a much-needed boost to industries and offering hope to the thousands of unemployed youth. Ahead of the address, various stakeholders, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC), civil society organizations, business leaders, and other key players, have presented their expectations to the President. These groups have emphasized the need for policies that prioritize job creation, address the rising cost of living, and promote inclusive economic growth. The TUC, in particular, has called for measures to protect workers’ rights and improve working conditions, while business leaders have urged the government to create an enabling environment for private sector growth. As President Mahama takes the podium today, all eyes will be on his ability to articulate a clear and actionable plan to steer Ghana towards economic stability and prosperity. The success of his second term will largely depend on his administration’s ability to deliver on its promises and restore public confidence in the government’s capacity to address the nation’s challenges. Ghanaians remain hopeful that this…
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- Local News , News , Politics
- February 21, 2025
- 206 views
- 4 minutes Read
Mahama to Present Inaugural State of the Nation Address Before Economic Dialogue
President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to address Parliament with the State of the Nation Address next week, paving the way for the National Economic Dialogue on March 3, 2025. In a press briefing following the first Cabinet meeting of the new administration, the Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced that President John Dramani Mahama would present the State of the Nation Address to Parliament next week. The address is expected to set the tone for the much-anticipated National Economic Dialogue scheduled for March 3, 2025. Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasized the significance of the State of the Nation Address in Ghana’s political calendar, highlighting its role in providing a comprehensive update on the nation’s economic state. “It will offer insights into the economic situation inherited by this administration and outline bold plans for economic revival and resuscitation,” he said, adding that President Mahama would take the opportunity to delve deep into these pressing issues. Key Briefings from the Cabinet Meeting During the inaugural Cabinet meeting, three critical briefings were delivered to guide the new administration’s strategic direction: Unveiling the New Cabinet The 19-member Cabinet, chaired by President Mahama, reflects a blend of experienced leaders and strategic thinkers poised to drive the administration’s agenda. The composition of the Cabinet is as follows: The newly formed Cabinet is expected to hit the ground running, focusing on economic stabilization, social welfare, and delivering on campaign promises. With the upcoming State of the Nation Address and the National Economic Dialogue, the administration is poised to outline a clear and actionable path to national development and prosperity.
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Senior Aide to Mexico City Mayor Gunned Down in Public Daylight Shooting
- May 21, 2025
- 1757 views
Passengers to Enjoy 15% Reduction in Transport Fares from May 24
- May 20, 2025
- 2299 views
“Three Dead After Heavy Rains Hit Adenta on Sunday”
- May 19, 2025
- 3973 views
Deals worth $300bn signed with U.S, says Saudi crown Prince
- May 15, 2025
- 622 views
“Foreign Nationals Arrested by National Security for Illegal Gold Trading”
- May 14, 2025
- 534 views
