Latest news with #Polish-French
Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Poland and France commit to helping each other in case of military threat
French President Emmanuel Macron welcomes Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk as he arrives for a meeting with European leaders and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on peace and security for Ukraine, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, March 27, 2025. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo Poland and France commit to helping each other in case of military threat WARSAW - Poland and France will sign a treaty on Friday in which they will commit to helping each other in the event of a military threat, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said. The treaty will be signed amid security concerns in Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which borders Poland, and amid European doubts about U.S. President Donald Trump's long-term commitment to the continent's security. The treaty, which the two countries will sign in the French city of Nancy, covers topics including defence, energy, nuclear, and transport matters. "The provision that we have in the treaty in the event of a threat of attacks on Poland and France, both countries commit to provide assistance, including military assistance," Tusk told reporters before leaving for France. "From my experience, the provisions of the treaty are groundbreaking from the point of view of our safety." Tusk said the new treaty opens up opportunities for cooperation on a potential extension of the French nuclear umbrella to cover Poland. Tusk said the Polish-French agreement was not an "alternative" to Poland's relations with the United States. "We need both America and a strong European Union, also in terms of military," he said. Tusk also said the two countries would undertake joint initiatives aimed at bringing peace to Ukraine, but gave no details. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Express Tribune
27-02-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Power of female education
The writer is an educationist based in Larkana. She can be contacted at sairasamo88@ Listen to article Education is a fundamental right that every individual deserves, regardless of gender. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, this right remains uncertain, particularly for girls. As of 2024, the country's female literacy rate stands at approximately 52%, compared to the overall literacy rate of 70%. This disparity is even more alarming in remote areas of Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of Punjab where limited educational opportunities continue to hinder access to learning of girls and women. This wide gap not only deprives them of the opportunity to lead a dignified life, as cherished in the human rights charter, but also negatively impacts future generations. History provides concrete examples of how education has empowered women to play pivotal roles in national and global development. When allowed to pursue higher education and prove their abilities, women have excelled in every profession and left a luminous example in history as an exceptional leader. They have shaped societies across various fields, proving their worth through remarkable contributions. Angela Merkel, as the Chancellor of Germany for 16 years, strengthened Germany's economy, managed the Eurozone crisis and upheld democratic values. Dr Ruth Pfau dedicated her life to treating leprosy patients in Pakistan, significantly improving public health services. Marie Curie, a Polish-French physicist and chemist, pioneered research in radioactivity, becoming the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win it in two different scientific fields. Mother Teresa, an iconic humanitarian, devoted her life to charity and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her selfless service. Dr Fehmida Mirza became the first woman Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan and the first in the Muslim world, setting a precedent for female leadership. Sherry Rehman became the country's first female Leader of the Opposition in the Senate and has played a vital role in foreign policy and climate advocacy. Dr Yasmin Rashid contributed significantly to improving healthcare in Punjab and served as the Health Minister during the PTI government. Women are an integral part of society, and their empowerment through education is a must for a balanced and progressive community. As mother, sister, wife and active community member, women play multiple vital roles in society. There is no doubt that an educated woman is a powerful agent of change, influencing family well-being, shaping future generations. When given educational opportunities, women contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic and political development of a nation. When women receive an education, the benefits extend far beyond their household, positively impacting the entire nation. An educated woman is more likely to join the workforce, drive economic growth and achieve financial independence. This, in turn, reduces dependency and improves household incomes, strengthening families and communities. Her education also empowers her to understand her rights, advocate for herself, and challenge societal norms that hinder gender equality. We must take concrete steps to prioritise and facilitate female education, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas. Schools must be established with adequate infrastructure, including separate facilities for girls. Financial barriers should be addressed through scholarships and financial assistance programmes specifically for them. Besides, awareness campaigns should be launched to challenge societal norms and stereotypes that discourage female education. These campaigns must involve community leaders, religious scholars and influential figures to drive a cultural shift towards supporting girls' education. Investing in female education is not just a matter of basic human rights but a strategic step toward national development. The government, society and families must work together to provide women and girls with accessible and quality education. It is our responsibility to reject harmful gender biases and stereotypes and actively support their right to learn. An educated woman influences other women to participate in various fields, benefiting future generations. I appreciate responses from the readers: do you support female education?
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ECB selects new banknote designs, with images from Beethoven to Curie
The European Central Bank (ECB) has made a preliminary selection of designs intended for the planned new euro banknotes, including birds, rivers, buildings or famous figures such as Marie Curie and Leonardo da Vinci. "The new banknotes will symbolize our shared European identity and the diversity that makes us strong," said ECB President Christine Lagarde. The first theme, "'European Culture' celebrates the shared cultural spaces that have shaped European identity over the centuries" and "iconic European personalities," the ECB announced from its headquarters in the German financial hub of Frankfurt. Designs include the Polish-French Nobel Prize laureate Curie, German composer Ludwig van Beethoven and painter and Italian artist and polymath da Vinci. The reverse side might feature street artists, a library or a university. The second group, "'Rivers and Birds' highlights the resilience and diversity of Europe's natural ecosystems." On the reverse side of banknotes for this theme, European institutions could be displayed, such as the European Parliament or the European Commission. "We are excited to present these real-life motifs that reflect our commitment to Europe and celebrate its cultural heritage and natural environment," said Lagarde.
Globe and Mail
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Beethoven or birds? European Central Bank seeks ideas for new banknote designs
The European Central Bank is seeking a new design for euro banknotes, with possible subjects including great cultural figures like German composer Ludwig van Beethoven, or birds and rivers. The first revamp of euro banknotes since their launch 23 years ago is designed to make them more appealing and relatable. They currently feature nameless bridges and windows. Designers can choose from two alternative sets of motifs: European culture or a combination of rivers, birds and European institutions. Under the former, the fronts of the euro's six banknote denominations will feature famous Europeans. In ascending order of banknote value, these are: Greek opera singer Maria Callas, Beethoven, Polish-French scientist Marie Curie, Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes, Italian artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci and Austrian peace activist Bertha von Suttner. These names, put forward by a group of independent experts and then picked by the ECB, might prove controversial as only six of the euro zone's 20 countries are represented. The reverse will feature cultural events or facilities such as a song festival or a library. The alternative motif will feature birds and rivers on the front of the notes, and European institutions including the ECB itself on the reverse. The ECB will open the contest this year and select the design in 2026 although the new banknotes will only go into circulation several years later.
The Independent
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Euro banknote designs to be changed for first time in 23 years
The European Central Bank is revamping euro banknotes for the first time since their launch 23 years ago. The Bank is seeking a new design for the banknotes, with possible subjects including cultural figures like German composer Ludwig van Beethoven, or birds and rivers. The revamp is designed to make them more appealing and relatable. They currently feature nameless bridges and windows. Designers can choose from two alternative sets of motifs: European culture or a combination of rivers, birds and European institutions. Under the former, the fronts of the euro's six banknote denominations will feature famous Europeans. In ascending order of banknote value, these are: Greek opera singer Maria Callas, Beethoven, Polish-French scientist Marie Curie, Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes, Italian artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci and Austrian peace activist Bertha von Suttner. These names, put forward by a group of independent experts and then picked by the ECB, might prove controversial as only six of the euro zone's 20 countries are represented. The reverse will feature cultural events or facilities such as a song festival or a library. The alternative motif will feature birds and rivers on the front of the notes, and European institutions including the ECB itself on the reverse. The ECB will open the contest this year and select the design in 2026 although the new banknotes will only go into circulation several years later.
