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Its clout on the world stage is diminished. Facing major funding cuts from the United States and others, it has been forced to shed jobs and start tackling long-delayed reforms.

The United Nations, a collaborative global dream built into reality out of the ashes of World War II, marks its 80th anniversary this month. There’s little to celebrate.

Its clout on the world stage is diminished. Facing major funding cuts from the United States and others, it has been forced to shed jobs and start tackling long-delayed reforms. Its longtime credo of “multilateralism” is under siege. Its most powerful body, the Security Council, has been blocked from taking action to end the two major wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

And as conflict between Israel, Iran and now the United States flares, it watched from the sidelines.

Four generations after its founding, as it tries to chart a new path for its future, a question hangs over the institution and the nearly 150,000 people it employs and oversees: Can the United Nations remain relevant in an increasingly contentious and fragmented world? With its dream of collaboration drifting, can it even survive?

When the United Nations was born in San Francisco on June 26, 1945, the overriding goal of the 50 participants who signed the UN Charter was stated in its first words: “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war.”

The White House signaled trade progress with China on Thursday, with an official saying both sides have reached an understanding on issues including expediting rare earth shipments to the United States.

China also committed to easing some non-tariff countermeasures, but US officials later accused Beijing of violating the pact and slow-walking export license approvals for rare earths.

Both sides eventually agreed on a framework to move forward with their Geneva consensus following talks in London this month.

On Thursday, a White House official told AFP that President Donald Trump’s administration and China have “agreed to an additional understanding for a framework to implement the Geneva agreement.”

This clarification came after Trump told an event that Washington had “just signed” a deal relating to trade with China, without providing further details.

Asked about Trump’s remarks on Bloomberg TV, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick referred to the London negotiations, saying the framework deal — which needed top-level approval — has now been “signed and sealed.”

Separately on Thursday, the White House also indicated that Washington could extend a July deadline when steeper tariffs impacting dozens of economies are due to kick in.

While Trump imposed a sweeping 10 percent levy on most trading partners this year, he unveiled — then halted — higher rates on dozens of economies while negotiations took place.

That pause is set to expire July 9.

Asked if there were plans to further the pause, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters: “Perhaps it could be extended, but that’s a decision for the president to make.”

“The deadline is not critical,” she said. “The president can simply provide these countries with a deal if they refuse to make us one by the deadline.”

This means Trump can “pick a reciprocal tariff rate that he believes is advantageous for the United States,” she said.

Lutnick told Bloomberg TV that Washington will announce some deals in the next week or so.

“Those who have deals will have deals, and everybody else who’s been negotiating with us, they’ll get a response from us,” he said.

“July 9 will go forward. And as the president said, if people want to come back and negotiate further, they’re entitled to, but that tariff rate will be set, and off we’ll go,” Lutnick added.

On the progress of trade negotiations, Leavitt added that US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is “working very hard” and has had “good and productive discussions with many of our key trading partners.”

The demolition of a Durga Temple in Dhaka had led to a sharp response from India over the treatment of minorities in Bangladesh. Authorities in Bangladesh have justified the move, calling it a ‘makeshift structure’, built illegally. 

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We understand that extremists were clamouring for the demolition of the Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka. The interim government, instead of providing security to the temple, projected the episode as a case of illegal land use and allowed the destruction of the temple today.”

“This has resulted in damage to the deity before it was relocated. We are dismayed that such incidents continue to recur in Bangladesh. Let me underline that it is the responsibility of the interim government of Bangladesh to protect Hindus, their properties, and their religious institutions,” Mr Jaiswal said. 

India has repeatedly voiced concern about the targeting of minorities in Bangladesh under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue with Mr Yunus during the meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. 

Prime Minister Modi had also underlined India’s concerns related to the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus, and expressed his expectation that the Government of Bangladesh would ensure their security, including by thoroughly investigating the cases of atrocities committed against them, during the meeting with Muhammad Yunus. 

Paris Hilton makes sure to keep her family first when it comes to going on dreamy vacations to picturesque locales. This time around too, the American socialite is off for a wanderlust worthy holiday in Sardinia. Paris Hilton is spending her perfect summer vacation at the Italian island surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and the love of her family including her husband, Carter Reum and children including her daughter, London and son, Phoenix.
Paris Hilton made sure to make as many touristy memories as possible during her rather frame worthy vacation in Sardiania. The businesswoman and cultural icon was seen spending mushy times lounging atop a cruise with her children while they also spent quality time with their father, they spent bright sunny mornings having breakfast with the turquoise waters in the background. Paris even spent a quiet minute perched on the edge of the boat to soak in some sun and enjoy tranquil vibes, while on another occasions she went bracelet shopping and for long walks with her little ones. Last but not least, they made sure to bask in the glory of the Italian sun and go snorkelling to add an edge of adventure to the vacation.

If you are bitten by the travel bug, witnessing Paris Hilton vacationing in Sardinia. Here are the must experience things that should be on your to-do list whilst you plan your next vacay.

1. Visit Su Nuraxi di Barumini and discover a well-preserved Nuragic complex which is a UNESCO world Heritage site as well.
2. Just like Paris and her family did, make sure to take go for boat tours on a catamaran cruise or full day tours to explore the coastline and hidden gems.
3. Again, take cues from Paris to go snorkelling and diving and discover the underwater world of Sardinia’s crystal- clear waters.
4. Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Nora near Cagliari.
5. Don’t forget to savour the local delicacies like fresh seafood, roasted meats and regional cheeses in true Sardianian style.

Paris Hilton’s Sardinian vacation is the stuff of cruise vacation dreams.

New Delhi:

A viral quote has been making the rounds where Priyanka Chopra has been attributed to have said, “Don’t look for a virgin as a wife. Get a woman with good manners. Virginity ends in one night but manners last forever.”

The statement is being pulled out of context stating that the Heads of State actress is advising men to not look for a wife who is a virgin. Earlier today, Priyanka Chopra shared a post making such claims on her Instagram story and urged people to not believe everything they see online.

What’s Happening

• Priyanka Chopra addressed the ongoing viral post on her remark that men should not look for a wife who is a virgin, but rather be with someone who has manners that last forever.
• The actress called it out as a fake statement as she shared an Instagram story and wrote, “This is not me, my quote or my voice. Just because it is online, does not make it true. Creating fake content is now an easy way to achieve virality. None of the links or sources attached to this claim, or many others online, are real or credible. Take a minute to cross-check such content and don’t believe everything you scroll past. Stay safe online.”

New Delhi:

The 2024 mystery thriller Merry Christmas by Sriram Raghavan saw Katrina Kaif alongside Vijay Sethupathi for the first time. The film did not score big at the box office, however, Katrina Kaif was appreciated for stepping out of her comfort zone and doing the unexpected. 

As Vicky Kaushal agrees, in a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, he revealed his favourite scene from Merry Christmas featuring Katrina Kaif. Appreciating how Katrina ‘lets herself go’ in the film, he called her performance fabulous.

Badshah’s much anticipated Paris Fashion Week 2025 visit is no longer on the wait list. The Indian rapper and musician has arrived and how in the French capital looking all chic as he headed out of the airport and made his way into the city. What’s more, the first thing on his to-do list was the Christian Louboutin headquarters where he soaked in all the sartorial vibes and experience that the City of Love has to offer. But what caught our eyes in particular was the necklace adorned around his neck that truly became the symbol of him taking the Indian aesthetic to Paris.
With An ‘Om’ Necklace And Hermes Bag, Rapper Badshah Takes India To Paris For Christian Louboutin

Badshah makes a rather dapper entry in Paris wearing an om necklace wound around her neck

Badshah’s much anticipated Paris Fashion Week 2025 visit is no longer on the wait list. The Indian rapper and musician has arrived and how in the French capital looking all chic as he headed out of the airport and made his way into the city. What’s more, the first thing on his to-do list was the Christian Louboutin headquarters where he soaked in all the sartorial vibes and experience that the City of Love has to offer. But what caught our eyes in particular was the necklace adorned around his neck that truly became the symbol of him taking the Indian aesthetic to Paris.

Badshah ticked all the wardrobe boxes right by picking the correct OOTD for the occasion, featuring a faux leather olive hued button button shirt paired with straight fit black trousers that featured a briaded drawstring detail on the right pocket and a vibrant white and orange Hermes Twilly scarf casually adorned on the ther pocket.

Badshah’s accessory game was no doubt the star of the show fetauring a vibrant pair of orange and navy printed sneakers with studded details and a tie-up closure. They were a signature piece from the Otis Carey collection by Christian Louboutin. To this he added the perfect arm candy in the form of a tan coloured Hermes Birkin bag with silver accents and white threadwork. A pair of lightly tinted sans frame sunglasses and a maximal silver watch later he was accessorised almost to perfection.

But the star of the show was an ‘Om‘ necklace in a hexagonal shape with studded with diamonds teamed with an interlocked gold chain from Tyaani Jewellery. He matched it with a cocktail ring encrusted with diamonds that he carried off with ease on his little finger.

On the grooming front, Badshah wore his tresses in trimmed messy curls and his beard and moustache was trimmed and shaped to perfection to make him look all dapper for the occasion. He was seen with all smiles while attending the Christian Louboutin event while checking a a black patent leather pair of slip on shoes from the luxe footwear brand. In addition, he also spent quality time interacting with the brand represenataives and posing for pictures with the who’s who at the coveted event.

Day after attacking Diljit Dosanjh for his decision to release Sardaar Ji 3, featuring Pakistani actor Hania Aamir, overseas, Mika Singh said Diljit will be forgiven for his “mistake” if he apologises and remove all “objectionable” scenes from the film. Mika Singh, earlier, slammed Diljit as “fake” singer who betrayed his fans’ trust.

What’s Happening

Mika Singh shared a new post on Instagram and wrote, “Guys, I understand, we all make mistakes in life. But when we do, there’s one simple word that holds power: Sorry. If Diljit made a mistake, we’re all willing to forgive. But he must apologise and remove all the objectionable scenes from the movie! That’s it. No hate. Just respect. Desh pehle!”
On Tuesday night (June 24), Mika Singh attacked Diljit Dosanjh over not withholding his decision to release Sardaar Ji 3 overseas, despite triggering social media backlash and threats from film bodies.

“Before releasing any content that involves artists from across the border, they should think twice-especially when our nation’s dignity is involved. 

“There was a film featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor that many of us opposed, and yet, some still don’t seem to get the message. What’s more shocking is that a fake singer, after doing 10 shows in India with thousands of fans buying tickets, had now disappeared – leaving fans betrayed and helpless,” Mika wrote in his previous Intagram post. 

Mika was referring to Diljit’s successful Dil-Luminati world tour in the post.

A Dubai-based CEO has sparked discussion online after sharing a post about chartering a $20 million private jet. Jonathan Low, CEO of Biptap, clarified that he didn’t purchase the jet but only chartered it. “Every time I post a photo, LinkedIn explodes with hate. They think it’s flexing – it’s not. It’s progress,” he wrote. He went on to explain that just two years ago, he struggled to afford flights and hotels. First-class travel and global business trips were merely part of his “vision board” back then, he added.

“Now? I fly private to make it on time for a meeting. I built this life when I had nothing but a dream. Now I’m living what felt impossible back then. So let them talk. Keep working. Keep building. One day, your discipline will look like luck to everyone who doubted you,” Mr Low added. 

US President Donald Trump’s recent claims about mediating major international conflicts have stirred widespread discussion online and offline. Trump stated that he played a key role in preventing a nuclear war between India and Pakistan and in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. He credited his achievements to personal diplomacy and strong economic leverage.

However, many experts and governments have questioned these assertions. India, in particular, has rejected Trump’s involvement in its ceasefire with Pakistan, stating that the agreement was the result of direct military-level negotiations, not external mediation.

Trump’s statements have drawn skepticism globally, especially in South Asia, where his claims are viewed as exaggerated. Diplomats and analysts have also expressed doubt over the effectiveness and credibility of Trump’s self-proclaimed mediation efforts.Social media users have responded to Trump’s remarks with a wave of humorous memes, turning serious diplomatic matters into viral internet content.

One popular meme shows Trump receiving prank calls asking him to mediate in marital disputes between married couples, with a frustrated Trump saying, “Who gave you my number? I don’t mediate between husbands and wives!”