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US President Donald Trump has said he will withhold federal broadband funding from states whose laws to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) are judged by his administration to be holding back American dominance in the technology.”We want to have one central source of approval,” Trump told reporters, flanked by top advisers, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, arguing that 50 different regulatory regimes hamper the growth of the nascent industry.”To win, United States AI companies must be free to innovate without cumbersome regulation,” the order said, adding that the current patchwork of different regulatory regimes made compliance more challenging, especially for start-ups.The Trump administration will work with Congress in coming weeks and months to craft a single national framework to regulate developments in the field of AI, White House adviser Sriram Krishnan told CNBC yesterday.He told CNBC’s *First on CNBC programme that the executive order signed by Trump was needed to ensure companies could move forward with technology developments and not have to contend with over 1,000 state regulations already on the books.However, eventually the issue would require legislation by Congress, Krishnan said.”So we’ll be working with Congress in the coming weeks and months to make sure that is a single national framework which makes sure we can win this race,” he said.Trump has embraced AI as a critical technology, working closely with US companies to boost investment in a sector where China has also made great strides.However, critics worry that unfettered development could leave Americans vulnerable.The order also reflects the Trump administration’s broader attack against anti-discrimination efforts, taking aim at states such as Colorado that have sought to prevent discriminatory language from being embedded in AI models.Such efforts could result in “ideological bias” and produce false results, it said.The order will give the Trump administration tools to push back on the most “onerous” state regulations, said White House AI adviser David Sacks.The administration will not oppose rules governing AI that relate to child safety, he added.It directs the secretary of commerce to evaluate state laws for conflicts with Trump’s AI priorities and to block those states in conflict from accessing the $42bn Broadband Equity Access and Deployment fund.Democratic Representative Don Beyer, who co-chairs a bipartisan caucus on AI, said the order would squelch safety reforms passed by states and create “a lawless Wild West environment for AI companies that puts Americans at risk”.He warned that the order would reduce the likelihood of congressional action and likely violated the 10th Amendment, which says that any powers not specifically given to the federal government belong to the states or the people.Trump’s order called for his administration to work with Congress to craft a national standard that forbids state laws which conflict with federal policy, protects children, prevents censorship, respects copyrights and protects communities.Until such a standard was in place, the order called for actions to “check the most onerous and excessive laws emerging from the states that threaten to stymie innovation”.Major AI players including ChatGPT maker OpenAI, Alphabet’s Google, Meta Platforms, and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz have said the federal government, not states, should regulate the industry.Yet state leaders from both major political parties have said they need the power to put guardrails around AI, particularly as Congress has consistently failed to pass laws governing the tech industry.New York state last month became the first to enact a law requiring online retailers that employ “surveillance pricing” to disclose their use of algorithms and customers’ personal data.California and lawmakers in Washington are considering bans on such methods, which are also known as “personalised pricing”.Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, has proposed an AI bill of rights that includes data privacy, parental controls and consumer protections.California Governor Gavin Newsom, whose state is home to several major AI companies, signed off on a bill this year requiring major AI developers to explain plans to mitigate potential catastrophic risks.Other states have passed laws banning AI-generated non-consensual sexual imagery and unauthorised political deepfakes. Source link
An immersive pop-up experience open to all fans from December 14 to 17 at Hotel ParkParis Saint-Germain is inviting all its supporters to discover the Ici C’est Paris Park by Qatar Airways in Doha, Qatar, an immersive and temporary space open from December 14 to 17 at Hotel Park. Designed as a place of celebration and togetherness around the Club, Ici C’est Paris Park offers fans the opportunity to experience the Paris Saint-Germain universe from the inside — more than 6,000 km from Paris.An open space for everyone to experience PSG Ici C’est Paris Park by Qatar Airways will be open to the public on 14 December from 5 pm to 10 pm, and on 15, 16 and 17 December from 3 pm to 10 pm.Designed as an inclusive, family-friendly and intergenerational space, it invites residents, visitors, families and football lovers to explore the PSG’ universe in an interactive, welcoming and inspiring environment. Throughout the event, visitors will enjoy a wide range of immersive and creative experiences designed for all audiences. Ici C’est Paris Park will feature a 360° immersive room, cultural and musical activations, workshops for younger fans, a mini football pitch hosted by PSG Academy coaches, and a cafe area in collaboration with Chef Nour. The Club’s partners will also be present with exclusive installations, while a retail area will offer a selection of iconic products and collaborations. Fans will even have the opportunity to see some of Paris Saint-Germain’s major trophies. The ambition is simple: to offer everyone a lively and accessible space where sport, culture, music, creativity and Paris Saint-Germain passion come together.For the full schedule and complete programme, visit the dedicated page: psg.fr/icp-park-doha A concept born in Los Angeles, now brought to the heart of the Middle East In Doha, Paris Saint-Germain will introduce a vibrant, creative and welcoming space for all its fans: the Ici C’est Paris Park, designed to immerse visitors in the heart of the Club’s identity. This experience draws inspiration from the PSG House launched in Los Angeles last summer, where thousands of supporters enjoyed an environment blending sport, culture, style and entertainment. The initiative welcomed a wide audience – families, young fans, creators, local communities, influencers and media – through dynamic and multisensory installations that reflect the Club’s unique position as a modern, creative and culturally influential brand. Building on this momentum, the Club continues to expand the concept in the Middle East, reaffirming its commitment to staying close to its international fan base and offering world-class events wherever its supporters are.PSG: a global club that shines far beyond footballWith the Ici C’est Paris Park, Paris Saint-Germain reinforces its status as a global brand at the crossroads of sport, fashion, art and lifestyle.With supporters across all continents, the Club continues to develop emblematic and experiential projects for its worldwide community.This new space in Doha showcases PSG’s ability to design innovative, inclusive and unifying experiences, while delivering a strong and coherent brand universe – wherever fans are in the world. Source link
Manisha Dixit won the Indian Women Association’s (IWA) 3rd Season of the Mrs IWA – Beauty and the Brain pageant recently. Dr Rupa Asolkar was the first runner-up, Dr Anjum Singhal second runner-up and Rashmi Chanda third runner-up.Category Winners: Mrs IWA Ramp Walk Queen – Sarika Nirmal, Mrs IWA Flawless Skin – Dr Rupa Asolkar, Mrs IWA Talented Diva – Suparna Ghosh / Sudha Kodakkarente, Mrs IWA Photogenic – Manisha Dixit, Mrs IWA Witty Brain – Mauly Nirav Bavisi, Mrs IWA Crowning Glory – Anjum Singal, Mrs IWA Fitness Freak – Neha Pandere, Mrs IWA Confident Diva – Neha Kaushal, Mrs IWA Beautiful Smile – Rashmi Chanda, and Mrs IWA Congeniality – Naveenapriya Ragavendran. The jury comprised Rajesh Singh, Ramesh Bulchandani, Urooj Khan, Snehal Mandgaonkar, and Zulfikar Ali. Mentors and creative team: Priya Bhedi (internal jury and pageant coach), Vidhi Thaker Shukla (fashion stylist), Bhavna Sagar Naik (choreographer), and Sony Amarnath (makeup artist).Indian embassy’s deputy chief of mission Sandeep Kumar was the chief guest. Dr Manisha Tandale was special guest and Shantanu Deshpande guest of honour.“The third season of Mrs IWA has been our most inspiring yet,” said Priya Bhedi, IWA president and director of Mrs IWA. “Every participant showcased not only beauty, but immense confidence, intelligence, and passion. We are proud to provide a platform that celebrates the strength and spirit of Indian women.” Source link
Tens of thousands of people were under evacuation orders in western North America, after days of heavy rain forced rivers to burst their banks.Storms have battered Washington state in the US and British Columbia over the Canadian border for several days, with rivers continuing to rise.People living south of Seattle and Tacoma have been told to leave their homes, with aerial photographs showing farmland already under water, and populated areas perilously close. A sign warning drivers about flood water is partially covered by water in an area flooded by the Snohomish River, as an atmospheric river brings…
Jordan booked a berth in the FIFA Arab Cup semi-finals as they edged Iraq 1-0 at the Education City Stadium. Ali Olwan’s first-half penalty proved the difference in front of 40,000 fans in Al Rayyan, as he maintained a remarkable record of scoring from the spot in each of Jordan’s four matches at the tournament.Later at the Al Bayt Stadium, the United Arab Emirates dumped defending champions Algeria 7-6 on penalties, after the match had ended 1-1 in both regulation and extra time.Two years ago, Jordan and Iraq clashed at the start of the knockout stage at a major tournament in Qatar, as the Nashama edged the Lions of Mesopotamia in the round of 16 at the Asian Cup.This time, also at the Education City, it was Jordan once again who won by a single goal, with Olwan scoring for the fourth straight match. His goal came late in an opening half that produced almost no other chances of note, despite Jordan having the better of the play. They did, however, lose star forward Yazan al-Naimat to an early knee injury.After the break, Iraq’s talisman Ali Jasim began to see much more of the ball and his team looked far better for it. Twice the dazzling winger came close midway through the half — first with a rasping effort from distance, then with a driven shot — both producing smart saves from Yazeed Abulaila.Jordan’s Mohannad Abu Taha, who has already scored one spectacular long-range effort at the tournament, came close to producing another late on as Jordan saw out the narrow win to book a last-four date with Saudi Arabia.Meanwhile, the UAE qualified for the semi-finals after a thrilling win over Algeria. Neither team showed much desire in the first half to assert dominance, with a cagey, low-quality opening 45 minutes producing few chances. The UAE focused on tightening their defensive line and maintaining discipline, while the referee disallowed a second Algerian goal for offside in the 44th minute.The second half brought signs of change as Adel Boulbina put Algeria ahead early, following up a shot from Youssef Brahimi that rebounded off the UAE goalkeeper’s hands and slotting it home to the right of the keeper.The UAE pushed forward, increasing their pressure on the Algerian defence in search of an equaliser, and they succeeded in restoring parity through Bruno in the 64th minute. He converted a pass from Caio, finishing with his left foot into the Algerian net.Neither side managed to break the deadlock in extra time, despite Algeria’s advantage, sending the match to penalties, where the UAE prevailed to set up a semi-final meeting with Morocco. Source link
Pakistan International School Qatar (Pisq) announced the remarkable success of two charity initiatives — the Girls’ Wing Bake Sale and the Cambridge Wing Bake Sale — organised to support the mission of the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS).The events highlighted the values of empathy, compassion, leadership, and social responsibility deeply rooted within the Pisq community, a statement said.The Girls’ Wing hosted a charity bake sale, led by the students of Grades 11 and 12 under the supervision of vice principal and biology teacher Nishat Wajid.The students prepared an impressive range of homemade baked items, showcasing not only their culinary creativity but also their commitment to serving humanity. Students from Grades 5-12 participated by purchasing items and contributing generously.The proceeds collected from the event will be donated to QCS, reaffirming Pisq’s dedication to charitable causes. The Girls’ Wing thanked Pisq principal Ch Muhammad Afzal, for his constant encouragement and for providing students with the opportunity to lead impactful community service initiatives.In another inspiring act of generosity, the Cambridge Wing of Pisq organised a charity bake sale to support QCS. Spearheaded by the Cambridge Students’ Council, the event demonstrated exceptional leadership, discipline, and community spirit. Nearly 50 students took part by preparing homemade items, managing stalls, and motivating their peers to support the cause.The bake sale was held under the guidance of vice principal Aliya Ejaz. Teachers assisted the students throughout the planning and implementation stages. All collected funds were formally handed over to QCS, contributing to their vital work in cancer awareness, patient support, and community health initiatives. Source link
On 14–15 December, the Suadi capital will host the Alliance’s 11th Global Forum, bringing together governments, civil society, youth leaders, women peacebuilders, and media voices.The theme:UNAOC:…
Pakistan has signed a memorandum of understanding with crypto exchange Binance to explore the ‘tokenisation’ of up to $2 billion in sovereign bonds, T-bills and commodity reserves to boost liquidity and attract investors, the finance ministry said on Friday. Separately, Pakistan also gave initial clearance for Binance and HTX, a digital-asset platform, to register with regulators to set up local subsidiaries and begin preparations for full exchange licence applications, the virtual assets authority said. The ministry said the agreement paved the way to explore a potential collaboration aimed at enabling the tokenisation and blockchain-based distribution of Pakistan's real-world assets.These can include sovereign bonds, treasury bills, commodity reserves such as oil, gas, metals or other raw materials owned by the government. Tokenisation is the process of creating a digital version of an asset.The move comes as other countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Japan and parts of the European Union expand formal licensing rules for crypto exchanges amid broader global regulatory tightening. The ministry also said the initiative could involve assets of up to $2 billion, subject to approvals, with the aim of improving liquidity, transparency and international market access.Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said the MoU signalled Pakistan's reform trajectory and ‘a long-term partnership.’Binance founder Changpeng Zhao said the agreement was ‘a great signal for the global blockchain industry and for Pakistan’, saying it marked the beginning of a move toward full deployment of the tokenisation initiative. INITIAL CLEARANCES FOR BINANCE, HTXThe Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority said it had issued early approvals to Binance and HTX after reviewing their governance and compliance controls. The clearances allow them to register on the Anti-Money Laundering system, set up local units and prepare full applications.Chair Bilal bin Saqib said the clearances kick off Pakistan's phased licensing process and signalled that compliance strength will determine which exchanges move ahead. BROADER DIGITAL-ASSET INITIATIVESThe initiative comes as Pakistan speeds up a major digital-finance overhaul into just a few months, creating the Pakistan Crypto Council and establishing the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority while drafting a formal licensing regime. Pakistan ranks as the world's third-largest crypto market by retail activity, Saqib said at Binance Blockchain Week Dubai 2025 earlier this week.A central bank digital currency pilot and a Virtual Assets Act are also planned for 2025.Pakistan’s crypto council has signed a letter of intent with U.S.-based World Liberty Financial to explore stablecoin use, tokenisation and other digital-asset infrastructure, Pakistan's finance ministry said in April.(Reporting by Ariba Shahid in Karachi. Editing by Mark Potter and Jane Merriman) Source link
The penultimate match of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup pits the champions of South America and Africa in the FIFA Challenger Cup. Three days after they saw off Cruz Azul in the FIFA Derby of the Americas, Flamengo now meet Pyramids at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium today to determine who will be the FIFA Challenger Cup champions. In addition to the standalone silverware, there’s also another major prize on offer for the winner: a date with Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, to be held in Qatar on Wednesday. Having been in Qatar now for close to a week, Flamengo should be in high spirits after they saw off Cruz Azul 2-1 to win the Derby of the Americas. That continued an extraordinary month of title-gathering for the Rio giants, who won both the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores and domestic Serie A crowns before their departure to Qatar. Giorgian De Arrescaeta, Flamengo midfielder, said on the eve of the match: “Each team has its identity and its players. This is a team that works and fights incredibly hard on the pitch. We’re finishing off a season full of major achievements and still fighting for the dream of becoming world champions. I still haven’t won a title here in Qatar. I’m happy to be back here, but the focus is first on reaching the final, and then on trying to become champions.” This is Flamengo’s second participation in a FIFA competition this year, having participated in the Club World Cup where they topped their group without losing a match before bowing out against Bayern Munich in the round of 16. Flamengo twice competed in the previous version of this competition, reaching the final in 2019 where they lost to Liverpool, and securing third place in the 2022 edition. Flamengo have lost only one of their last 12 matches in all competitions. African champions Pyramids also arrive in a good spell of form, sitting second in the Egyptian Premier League with just the one loss through their first dozen fixtures. Head coach Krunoslav Jurcic has named a strong travelling squad, headlined by Pharoahs stars Ahmed El Shenawy, Mohamed Hamdy, Mohanad Lasheen and Mostafa Fathi. Off the back of a wonderful showing in a 3-1 win in Jeddah against Al Ahli in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, they also know that they can compete at this level. Krunoslav Jurcic, Pyramids coach, said: “First of all, I’m so proud to be part of such a big competition, an elite competition with the biggest clubs in the world. We had an excellent season in Africa, winning the Champions League and now we came to Qatar to play the semi-final and hopefully the final. It’s a big reward for us and I want to enjoy it and for the players to enjoy all the moments of the competition because this is the top level of football.” The Intercontinental Cup brings together the six winners from each confederation’s top-tier club tournament in a condensed format. It is designed not to be a competitor to the 32-team Club World Cup, launched last year by FIFA and organised every four years.Players to watch At 31, Giorgian de Arrascaeta is arguably at the peak of his considerable powers. Flamengo’s playmaking prince had another superb domestic campaign where he plundered 18 goals and provided 14 assists in the league. The Uruguayan star then immediately translated that form onto the global stage, scoring both goals in his team’s 2-1 win over Cruz Azul earlier this week to book their place in the Challenger Cup. There is no question where the Pyramids goal threat is likely to come from and that is in the form of star striker Fiston Mayele. The Congo DR marksman struck a hat-trick as the Egyptian side toppled Al Ahli in the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and although he has been held without a goal in his past three domestic outings, he looms as a player that Flamengo will need to keep in check. Source link
Nammude Doha (Our Kitchen Garden) has elected its new managing committee for the term 2025–2027.The newly elected team brings together a dedicated group of individuals committed to expanding the organisation’s activities, strengthening community engagement, and promoting sustainable home gardening practices among families in Doha.The officials are Siroz Raveendran (president), Jawahar Bharathan (general secretary), Jainas Arakkal George (treasurer), Jitto James (vice president), Ramla Samad (joint secretary), and managing committee members Ambhara Pavithran, Mohammed Siyad, Rajesh Trikandiyoor, Sudheer Shenoy, Hamza M V, and Nishad Hassankutty.The new committee has expressed its commitment to introducing more community-oriented gardening initiatives, workshops, awareness programmes, and family engagement events in the upcoming term. With a renewed focus on sustainability, the team aims to encourage more households to cultivate their own vegetables and support a healthier, greener lifestyle. Source link