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Greece’s Asylum Freeze Sparks Global Outcry Amid Crete Migrant Surge

In a move that has ignited fierce backlash from human rights organizations and the United Nations, Greece has passed legislation temporarily halting asylum applications from migrants arriving by sea from North Africa. The three-month suspension, approved by parliament with 177 votes in favor and 74 against, allows for expedited repatriation without prior identification. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the measure as a “difficult but necessary decision” in response to a sharp rise in irregular arrivals, particularly from Libya to the island of Crete. Over 7,000 migrants have reached Crete and nearby Gavdos this year, straining local resources and prompting concerns from the tourism industry. Rights groups, including the International Rescue Committee, have condemned the ban as illegal and inhumane, warning it violates international and European law. The UNHCR echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the right to seek asylum is a fundamental human right regardless of how or wh...

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U.S.-China Rare Earth Trade Deal: A Strategic Shift in Global Supply Chains

In a significant development, former President Donald Trump announced that the United States and China have finalized a trade deal concerning rare earth minerals. The agreement, which awaits formal approval from Chinese President Xi Jinping, is expected to grant the U.S. greater access to China's rare earth supplies while imposing a 55% tariff on Chinese goods.

Rare earth minerals are crucial for various industries, including defense, electronics, and renewable energy. China dominates the global market, producing nearly 90% of the world's refined rare earths. The deal aims to stabilize supply chains and reduce U.S. dependence on alternative sources.

As part of the agreement, China will provide magnets and necessary rare earths upfront, while the U.S. will ease restrictions on Chinese students attending American universities. This move signals a broader effort to mend trade relations between the two economic giants.

While the deal offers short-term relief, experts caution that the U.S. must develop domestic rare earth processing capabilities to ensure long-term stability. The agreement marks a pivotal moment in global trade, with potential implications for industries reliant on these critical materials.

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