Taiwan’s Representative to Saudi Arabia: 260,000 Pagers Exported in Two Years

Taiwan’s representative to Saudi Arabia Samee Chang. 

(Asharq Al-Awsat)

Riyadh: 

Fatehelrahman Yousif
5 October 2024 

AD ـ 02 Rabi’ Al-Thani 1446 AH

Taiwan is investigating who is responsible for modifying the pagers that were turned into explosives in the hands of the Lebanese people, including members of Hezbollah.

Taiwan’s representative to Saudi Arabia Samee Chang told Asharq Al-Awsat that 260,000 pagers were exported from his country between 2022 and 2024, and 16 percent of them were sent to the United States and Europe.

He expressed his regret that the pagers were planted with explosives that were used in the attack in Lebanon last month, clarifying that the devices were not directly exported from Taiwan to Lebanon.

He explained that the components of the device are made of material that is not liable to explode.

Apollo Gold, the Taiwanese company that exported the pagers between 2022 and 2024, has never received any complaints that its devices have caused harm or exploded.

The attack in Lebanon has raised several questions and they are being probed by authorities in Taiwan, he went on to say.

One thing is for certain, the devices were not harmful in the shape they were exported from the country, stressed Chang.

Asked about whether the attack may harm Taiwan’s economy, he replied that his country’s industry sector has a strong reputation that will be difficult to undermine given the trust it has from clients.

The size of the sector and Taiwan’s investments cannot be measured by a small number of pagers, as they only make up a mere fraction in the country’s trade relations with countries all over the world, he stressed.

Separately, Chang revealed that Taiwan was considering cooperation with Saudi Arabia in the chip industry, saying he was optimistic over the broad potential for cooperation in the technology sector.

There are no limits to the cooperation between them, he added.

Taiwan constantly wants to maintain the relations and discuss opportunities for joint investments, he stated.

Taiwan was among the first countries to leap to cooperate with Saudi Arabia in all fields to help the Kingdom achieve its Vision 2030 that is spearheaded by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Chang said.

Defects uncovered in two newest Virginia-class US Navy subs

By Boyko Nikolov On Oct 5, 2024

The U.S. Navy recently flagged concerns over substandard welds in two of its newest Virginia-class submarines, the Hyman G. Rickover and the New Jersey. Similarly, the Navy has found welding issues in the aircraft carrier George Washington after its recent refurbishment. Fortunately, the Navy clarified that these weld defects do not compromise the ships’ safety or operational capabilities.

U.S. Navy photo by John Narewski

In a correspondence with the House Armed Services Committee, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro revealed that the welding problems affected ships like the George Washington and the newly built submarines Hyman G. Rickover and New Jersey. The issue stems from welders not properly following established welding procedures. However, Del Toro assured that naval experts confirmed the welds did not threaten critical systems, ensuring the vessels’ safety. He learned about the situation on September 24, and investigations are ongoing into welds on 23 other ships under construction or maintenance.

HII, the parent company of Newport News Shipbuilding, acknowledged last week that certain welders bypassed specific welding protocols when working on these military ships, but emphasized that there was no “malicious intent” behind their actions. HII stated that they immediately informed their clients and regulators and are collaborating with the Navy to address the issue. The Department of Justice is investigating, with Navy Secretary Del Toro expressing his readiness to fully cooperate as the Navy explores all legal avenues. Meanwhile, Congress remains vigilant, seeking detailed information about the breadth of this problem.

Photo credit: Ashley Cowan / U.S. Navy

This week, perhaps coincidentally, the Department of Defense has awarded a substantial contract to General Dynamics Electric Boat Corp. Valued at nearly USD 244 million, this contract is designated for the supply of spare parts and specialized material for Virginia-class submarines.

Recently discovered substandard welds in some submarines, while not compromising critical systems, have sparked important discussions about the long-term integrity and functionality of these vessels. Naval experts have reassured us that the integrity and mission capability of these submarines remain unaffected. Naval Sea Systems Command [NAVSEA] technical assessments have confirmed that there’s no immediate risk to the crews or submarine operations.

However, looking into the future, these defects present a potential risk of accelerating wear or leading to structural weaknesses. Even non-essential welds might compromise the overall hull stability over time, especially when subjected to high pressure and extreme underwater conditions. If unresolved, these issues could escalate maintenance costs and necessitate earlier repairs. The Navy is taking proactive measures by inspecting another 23 ships to ensure these defects do not impact the long-term functionality and durability of the fleet.

Photo by Ashley Cowan

The Virginia-class submarines are a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s fleet, celebrated for their cutting-edge technology and adaptability. With a displacement close to 7,800 tons and stretching to about 115 meters in length, these submarines boast remarkable flexibility and stealth capabilities. They run on a reactor that doesn’t need refueling throughout the vessel’s lifespan, granting them an unlimited range. Capable of a top underwater speed of around 25 knots, they dive to depths exceeding 240 meters. Armed with torpedoes and Tomahawk cruise missiles, Virginia-class submarines are adept at launching powerful strikes on both land and sea targets.

The U.S. defense apparatus leans heavily on Virginia-class submarines for their stealth and diverse mission capabilities across the world’s oceans. Their design enables operations in both deep and shallow waters, making them valuable in various military contexts. These submarines are instrumental in reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and special forces’ amphibious operations. Their strategic significance is underscored by their capability to assert American influence in critical regions like the Pacific Ocean and the Arctic, where geopolitical challenges are on the rise.

Virginia-class submarines are versatile players, executing diverse missions from traditional engagements against enemy vessels to contemporary roles like cyber warfare and underwater intelligence gathering. They are also pivotal in supporting special operations, with the ability to transport and deploy SEAL forces into hostile territories. Their adaptability and technological prowess are essential in preserving the US’s global military dominance, while also offering a robust strategic defense in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Photo credit: Navantia

American shipbuilding history has witnessed instances where inadequate welds on warships and submarines impacted their combat capabilities and performance. A notable case from the 1970s involved the USS Swordfish [SSN-579], part of the US Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet.

The weld issues emerged during routine inspections when defects were discovered in some of the hull welds. This forced the submarine into temporary non-operative status and necessitated extensive repairs to ensure both safety and combat effectiveness. While these challenges did not lead to serious accidents or loss of life, operations were delayed, prompting criticism of the shipbuilding quality control measures of that era.

Similarly, in 1985, the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson [CVN-70] faced issues with substandard welds during its initial years after commissioning. Structural components were affected, resulting in costly and prolonged repair work.

Photo credit: 1945

Despite no severe incidents occurring due to these defects, they brought to light deficiencies in the shipyard’s quality assurance processes, which led to stricter regulations and oversight of welding practices in subsequent years. These cases underscore the critical need for high standards in shipbuilding, especially for vessels of strategic importance.

***

Follow us everywhere and at any time. BulgarianMilitary.com has responsive design and you can open the page from any computer, mobile devices or web browsers. For more up-to-date news, follow our Google News, YouTube, Reddit, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook pages. Our standards: Manifesto & ethical principles.

Community center ‘shocked’ to learn NYC mayor ghosted them on orders from Turkish gov’t

ByTurkish Minute
October 4, 2024

In this file photo, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams speaks about a food drive with the Turkish Cultural Center, Oct. 8, 2015. 

Credit: Via Turkish Cultural Center News Release

Two people who are involved with a Turkish community center mentioned in an indictment against New York Mayor Eric Adams have said they were shocked to learn that the mayor cut off ties with them on orders from the Turkish government, New York-based local news outlet The City reported.

Adams is charged with bribery, wire fraud, conspiracy and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals in a 57-page indictment unsealed on September 26. The indictment accuses him of accepting illegal donations and more than $100,000 worth of free plane tickets and luxury hotel stays from wealthy Turkish nationals and at least one government official in a nearly decade-long corruption scheme.

According to the indictment, a Turkish government official told Adams, who had a relationship with the Turkish community center in Brooklyn, in or around 2016, that the community center was affiliated with a Turkish political movement that was hostile to Turkey’s government and that if Adams wanted to continue receiving support from the government, he could no longer be associated with the community center, a demand to which Adams acquiesced.

The Turkish organization is referred as the “Community Center” in the indictment without mention of its name, but it is believed to be the Gülen-linked Turkish Cultural Center Brooklyn, part of a non-profit organization promoting intercultural and inter-religious dialogue.

Two people from the Turkish Cultural Center Brooklyn who spoke on condition of anonymity to The City out of security concerns said they didn’t know why Adams stopped associating with the cultural center until they read the indictment.

Adams attended multiple events in association with and hosted by the center, as far back as 2012, when he was a state senator. As Brooklyn borough president, Adams co-hosted a meat drive for food pantries with the center and attended the center’s annual “friendship dinner” in 2016 but didn’t make the event in 2017, one year after a coup attempt in Turkey.

The Gülen movement is accused by the Turkish government and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of masterminding the failed coup in 2016 and is labeled as a “terrorist organization,” although the movement denies involvement in the coup attempt or any terrorist activity.

“I was surprised to learn he stopped talking to our community members after he got a request or order from the Turkish regime,” said one of the people, referencing Erdoğan. “It was shocking news for us.”

That person said the organization didn’t have much communication with Adams since about 2016 and that an outreach coordinator could not get a response from Adams’ office around that time.

He added, “We thought he was our friend.”

A third person involved with the center said back in 2016 he had tried to warn Adams that those associated with the Turkish regime were trying to influence him. Adams waved him off, he said.

“A lot of elected officials were actually informed by the Turkish government supporters, but only Eric Adams stayed away from us. The others continued their relationship with us,” the person said. “As the Brooklyn borough president, when he wasn’t meeting with us any more, it was a little bit disappointing to us.”

Following the coup attempt the Turkish government launched a massive crackdown on Gülen-linked people and organizations not only in Turkey but also abroad, pressuring other countries’ governments to close down Gülen-affiliated organizations and to close their doors to Gülen followers.

Former NBA player and activist Enes Kanter Freedom also said earlier this week to US media that Adams withdrew his support for him due to orders from the Turkish government since Freedom is a follower of the Gülen movement.

He told cable news network NewsNation’s “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” he felt he got the cold shoulder from Adams after the two of them were invited to Greece to accept an award.

“Me and Eric had a conversation about organizing free basketball camps for kids in New York. And I remember he got so excited. He gave me his phone number and said, ‘As soon as you come back, let me know,’” Freedom said.

But the former player, who spent two seasons with the New York Knicks, said that when he returned from the 2022 trip, Adams ghosted him.

Others ‘likely’ to face charges in NYC mayor’s trial over corrupt dealings with Turkish gov’t

By Turkish Minute
October 3, 2024

New York City Mayor Eric Adams arrives to appear in court after being indicted on federal charges of accepting bribes and illegal campaign contributions from Turkish nationals, in New York, September 27, 2024. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP)

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who pleaded not guilty last week to fraud and bribery charges, returned to Manhattan federal court on Wednesday as a US prosecutor suggested that additional charges could soon be brought against others involved in the case, which centers on Adams’ alleged corrupt dealings with Turkish officials, Agence France-Presse reported.

Adams, 64, is the first sitting mayor of New York City to be criminally indicted. The charges against him include wire fraud, soliciting illegal campaign donations and conspiring with Turkish nationals and at least one Turkish official to accept bribes in exchange for political favors. According to the indictment, the mayor allegedly received luxury gifts, including business-class international flights, hotel suites and high-end restaurant meals, as part of the conspiracy.

During the hearing prosecutor Hagan Scotten told U.S. District Judge Dale Ho that it was “likely” additional charges would be filed against other individuals involved in the scandal and hinted that Mayor Adams could face more counts. Scotten emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation, which could expand to include other potential co-conspirators.
Bribery allegations

The scandal dates back over a decade to Adams’ tenure as Brooklyn’s borough president, a position he held before becoming mayor of the nation’s largest city. Prosecutors allege that Adams accepted gifts and bribes from Turkish associates in return for political influence and favors. One key example involves Adams allegedly using his position to pressure New York City’s fire department to expedite approval for Turkey’s new high-rise consulate in Manhattan, despite safety concerns raised by fire officials.

Prosecutors claim that just days after helping push the project through, Adams solicited additional travel benefits from his Turkish contacts. The indictment describes a pattern of concealed financial dealings and secret arrangements designed to provide Adams with lavish perks while allowing his associates to benefit from his political influence.

The charges have already led to calls for Adams’ resignation from some city and state officials. Notably, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an influential lawmaker from New York, has publicly called for Adams to step down, arguing that his continued leadership would harm the city. The mayor, however, has remained defiant, refusing to resign and stating that he looks forward to defending himself in court.

The political implications of the case are significant, especially with the 2024 presidential election approaching. The indictment is a potential embarrassment for the Democratic Party, as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump face off in a tight race.

Adams, who was once considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, now finds himself at the center of a scandal that threatens to tarnish his legacy.

Adams’ defense team, led by attorney Alex Spiro, filed a motion on Wednesday to dismiss one of the five charges against the mayor.

Spiro has requested that the trial be scheduled before March to potentially conclude proceedings before the Democratic primary for the next mayoral election. Adams, who is up for re-election in 2025, has expressed his intention to clear his name before facing voters once again.

Judge Ho reserved his decision on the motion and the trial date but scheduled a procedural hearing for October 31.

Documentary on Turkey’s post-coup purge victims banned again for being ‘provocative’

THE TRUTH ALWAYS IS

ByTurkish Minute
October 4, 2024

The governor’s office in the southern Turkish province of Antalya has banned a documentary depicting the plight of victims of a post-coup purge in Turkey at a film festival in the city, in the latest example of censorship faced by the documentary’s director, the Gazete Duvar news website reported.

The documentary, titled “Kanun Hükmü” (The Decree), has faced censorship since it was released in 2023 for focusing on a sensitive issue in Turkish society — the challenges faced by more than 130,000 civil servants who were purged from their jobs through government decrees in the aftermath of a coup attempt in July 2016.

The civil servants were removed from their jobs under the pretext of an anti-coup fight.

The documentary would have been screened at the Free Orange Film Days, starting on October 3, in Antalya, organized by a group of writers, actors and other prominent figures named the “Arts for Freedom Initiative.”

However, the governor’s office notified director Necla Demirci in a letter that the documentary, which it described as “provocative,” cannot be shown during film days because it undermines national unity and solidarity and openly provokes a segment of the public to hatred and hostility against another segment based on their different characteristics in terms of social class, race, religion, sect or region.

According to the governor’s office, terrorist organizations aim to keep their bases alive through such productions as part of their perception management efforts in addition to bolstering the morale and motivation of their members and damaging the reputation of Turkey in the international arena.

Turkish authorities associate most purge victims with the faith-based Gülen movement.

The movement, inspired by US-based Turkish cleric Fethullah Gülen, is accused by the Turkish government of masterminding the 2016 coup attempt and labelled as a terrorist organization.

The group denies involvement in the abortive putsch and describes itself as a peaceful civil society organization focused on education, charity and interfaith dialogue.

Accusing the documentary of capitalizing on the “so-called victims,” the governor’s office also said the “distortion” of facts in the documentary not only destroys Turkey’s image but also shakes public confidence in the judicial system.

The documentary attracted international attention when it was first censored at the famous Golden Orange Film Festival in Antalya in 2023, leading to the cancellation of the festival.

In September 2023, the 60-year-old Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival in Antalya was abruptly canceled following a controversy surrounding a decision by the festival’s organizing committee to remove the documentary.

The decision to remove the documentary sparked outrage, drawing strong criticism from victims of the purge as well as activists.

The festival’s cancellation came after the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry withdrew its support, accusing the festival organizers of allowing “terrorist propaganda,” and sponsors followed suit.

This festival has only been canceled twice before, in 1979, when a conflict between right-wing and left-wing groups that killed over 5,000 people devastated Turkey, and in 1980, when the Turkish military took power and began to rule the country with an iron fist.

The documentary also faced other bans and censorship efforts in other cities by local authorities despite a decision by the Constitutional Court, which found that the local authorities’ ban on filming violated freedom of expression and awarded Demirci 13,500 Turkish lira in damages.

PETS ARE A FEMINIST ISSUE

Turkey’s World Animal Day celebration overshadowed by claims of mass dog killings

ByTurkish Minute
October 4, 2024

Animal right activists hold placards during a rally to protest against a bill drafted by the government that aims to remove stray dogs off the country's streets, in Istanbul on July 23, 2024. 

(Photo by Yasin AKGUL / AFP)


Turkey is celebrating World Animal Day, an international day of action for animal rights and welfare marked annually on October 4, this year amid claims of a surge in violence against stray dogs due to a controversial law enacted in August.

The law, which was passed by parliament and signed into force by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on August 2, allows municipalities to euthanize stray dogs deemed aggressive or ill. The legislation, which also mandates improvements to animal shelters by 2028, has sparked widespread protests from animal rights groups, who argue that it will pave the way for the mass euthanasia of stray dogs.

Ahmet Kemal Şenpolat, president of the Animal Rights Federation in Turkey (HAYTAP), told the Artı Gerçek news website that the annual observance of World Animal Day, which has aimed to protect and promote animal welfare since its inception in 1925, is marred this year by a legislative backdrop that promotes harm rather than protection for animals in Turkey.

He said the since the enactment of the law, reports about violence against stray animals have become more widespread in Turkey.

“Every day, reports and footage of violence and killings of stray animals are emerging from numerous cities. … Most importantly, since the enactment of this law, incidents of violence against animals have increased,” Şenpolat said, calling for a shift in social attitudes toward animal rights.

Referring to a move by the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) on August 15 to challenge the law at the Constitutional Court on the grounds that it contravenes the right to life guaranteed in the constitution, Şenpolat said the top court should suspend and repeal the law.

Burcu Yağcı from the Ankara Bar Association’s Animal Rights Center talked about the law’s ambiguous wording which she said has enabled individuals and institutions to act with impunity, leading to a grim tally of 60 confirmed animal deaths in the country over the past two months.

“As long as this law remains in effect, there may be no animals left to protect. That’s why, we will hold a rally outside the Constitutional Court today demanding that the law be rescinded,” she added.

According to a report by the Bianet news website on Friday, several animal rights groups in Turkey have announced that they will not be celebrating World Animal Day this year in protest of the law. Instead, they were going to hold a protest in front of the Constitutional Court in Ankara at noon.

“We cannot celebrate World Animal Day on October 4. We feel the shame of living in a country where laws are enacted for the slaughter of animals,” the Sokaktayım Yanındayım (I Am on the Street, I Am with You) initiative said in a written statement.

Ersin Tek from the Law for Life Initiative lamented the fact that Turkey is discussing state-backed animal killings on a day meant to champion animal rights.

“Unfortunately, we are aware that there may be incidents, especially in rural areas of Anatolia, that we haven’t even heard about. … We believe that possibly hundreds, if not thousands, of animals have been killed during this period,” Tek said.

Reports of mass dog killings have emerged in municipalities run by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in Niğde and Ankara provinces, prompting an outcry on social media.

Although the municipalities deny any wrongdoing, the controversy surrounding the new law and the discoveries of dog carcasses have intensified the debate over how Turkey should address its stray dog population, estimated to be around 4 million. Animal rights activists continue to call for mass sterilization efforts instead of euthanasia to control the stray dog population, warning that the current approach could lead to further abuse.

152 workers died in occupational accidents in Turkey in September: report

THERE ARE NO ACCIDENTS
ONLY PREVENTABLE INCIDENTS

ByTurkish Minute
October 4, 2024

A total of 152 people died in workplace accidents in Turkey in September, the Stockholm Center for Freedom reported, citing a monthly report by the Health and Safety Labor Watch (İSİG).

Three minors were included in the work-related fatalities.

Construction was the leading sector in fatalities in terms of overall workplace accidents, representing 28 percent of the deaths. It was followed by transportation with 15 percent and agriculture with 12 percent.

The most frequent causes of death were traffic accidents, which accounted for 23 percent of all deaths, crushing incidents with 20 percent and falling from heights, 17 percent.

A major deadly incident highlighted the issue of workplace safety this month. A devastating explosion occurred at the Oba Makarna pasta factory in northwestern Turkey on September 15, leaving one worker dead and 30 others injured.

In a statement following the explosion, the Turkish Medical Association (TTB) slammed the government for failing to implement necessary safety regulations and inspections.

People have been suffering from lax work safety standards for decades in Turkey, where workplace accidents are nearly a daily occurrence. İSİG reported nearly 2,000 work-related deaths in 2023.

According to the group, more than 30,000 occupational accidents have taken place since the Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power in November 2002.

İSİG General Coordinator Murat Çakır had earlier said the reason for the record number of fatalities in work-related accidents has to do with the policies of the AKP, which he said aim to turn Turkey into a source of cheap labor for Europe.

According to Çakır, workers feel obliged to work under unsafe conditions fearing that they will become jobless and unable to support their families.

İSİG began to record occupational fatalities in 2011. The platform also records the number of workers who died due to the lack of work safety in past years in addition to campaigning for stricter measures to maintain safety in workplaces.

A yearly report by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on labor rights reveals that Turkey is one of the 10 worst countries in the world for working people. According to the Brussels-based ITUC, workers’ freedoms and rights continued to be relentlessly denied with police crackdowns on protests in Turkey in 2023.

'Not acceptable': Indian tenant in Canada helpless as landlord evicts him, tosses belongings over dispute

ByMahipal Singh Chouhan
Oct 05, 2024 

HINDUSTAN TIMES

A viral video showed a Canadian landlord evicting an Indian tenant, sparking mixed reactions on social media over landlord-tenant relations.

A video capturing a Canadian landlord forcibly evicting an Indian tenant has gone viral, sparking widespread debate on social media. The 15-second clip, which has amassed over 1.7 million views, shows the tenant standing helplessly, shirtless, as the landlord removes his possessions. The incident has raised concerns about landlord-tenant relations, particularly for immigrants living abroad.

Video of Canadian landlord evicting Indian tenant sparked viral debate online.(X/@gharkekalesh)

The video, shared by the popular X account (formerly Twitter) “Ghar Ke Kalesh,” has stirred strong reactions online. The caption reads, “Desi guy and his landlord over he had fight with landlord because he was not vacating the house then the landlord came and started moving his stuff out by himself, Brampton, Canada.” In the footage, the tenant appears distressed, unable to prevent the landlord from discarding his belongings, which were thrown out.

Watch the clip here:



Many have questioned the circumstances that led to such a situation, with some speculating that the tenant may have refused to vacate the property, prompting the landlord to take matters into his own hands.
Social media reactions divided

Social media users have offered mixed reactions to the viral video. While some sympathised with the tenant, condemning the landlord’s aggressive actions, others saw humour in the situation, pointing out the cultural differences in handling such disputes.

One user commented, “This is so sad. Imagine being thrown out like this in a foreign land. Heartbreaking.” Another added, “Landlords can be ruthless, but there must have been a reason for this.” However, not everyone was as sympathetic. “The guy should’ve left when asked—this is what happens,” one person remarked. Another chimed in, saying, “Typical desi drama, but that landlord took it a step too far.”

Others poked fun at the incident, with one user quipping, “The way the landlord just went full Terminator mode is unreal!” Another comment read, “Only in Brampton could this happen, the desi capital of Canada.”

 

India Emerges as Global Mobile Manufacturing Hub: From Importer to Exporter in a Decade

India’s mobile phone industry has undergone a transformative journey over the past decade, evolving from a net importer to a global manufacturing powerhouse. This significant shift not only bolsters the nation’s economy but also positions India as a key player in the global electronics market.

In the fiscal year 2014-15, mobile phone production in India was valued at a modest ₹18,900 crore. Fast forward to 2023-24, and this figure is expected to escalate to an impressive ₹4.10 lakh crore. This exponential growth underscores the country’s escalating manufacturing capabilities and its commitment to becoming self-reliant in the electronics sector.

A pivotal aspect of this growth story is the surge in exports. In 2014-15, mobile phone exports stood at a mere ₹1,556 crore. According to data from the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), the last decade has seen mobile exports worth ₹3.22 lakh crore, with the year 2023-24 alone touching the ₹1,20,000 crore mark—marking an astounding 77-fold increase. This leap not only enhances India’s trade balance but also cements its reputation as a reliable exporter of high-quality mobile devices.

Conversely, imports have witnessed a dramatic decline. In 2014-15, India imported mobile phones worth ₹48,609 crore. By 2023-24, this number is expected to plummet to ₹7,665 crore, an 84% reduction. This shift signifies the country’s reduced dependency on foreign manufacturers and the success of initiatives promoting local production.

In 2014-15, a staggering 74% of all mobile phones in India were imported. Today, that narrative has changed remarkably. Now, over 99% of mobile phones used in India are ‘Made in India,’ highlighting the nation’s journey towards self-sufficiency.

Since 2014, India has produced an impressive 2.5 billion mobile handsets worth ₹20 lakh crore. The number of manufacturing units has surged from just a handful in 2014 to over 200 units, making India the second-largest mobile phone manufacturing nation globally. With an annual production rate of 325 to 330 million mobile phones, the country is now the world’s fastest-growing market for mobile phone production.

Government initiatives have played a crucial role in this transformation. The Phased Manufacturing Programme (PMP), launched in 2017, was the first significant step towards indigenizing mobile phone production. The PMP aimed to incentivize large-scale manufacturing by progressively increasing import duties on components, thus encouraging local assembly and production.

Building on this momentum, the 2021-22 Union Budget introduced the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing (LSEM) and IT hardware. This scheme offers incentives ranging from 3% to 5% on incremental sales value, effectively attracting global manufacturing giants like Foxconn, Pegatron, Rising Star, and Wistron to establish bases in India.

One of the crown jewels of India’s manufacturing landscape is Samsung’s largest mobile phone production factory, located in Noida. This facility underscores India’s appeal as a manufacturing hub and its ability to host large-scale operations for global companies.

The industry’s growth has also had a profound impact on employment. Between 2023 and 2028, the mobile phone manufacturing sector is expected to generate 8 lakh new jobs, providing a significant boost to the country’s employment rates. The Government of India projects that the sector will be worth $126 billion or Rs 10,587.82 billion by 2025-26.

Furthermore, India is set to become the second-largest 5G market after China by 2024, surpassing the United States. This advancement aligns with a February 2022 report by Deloitte, which predicts that India will have one billion smartphone users in the near future.

The ripple effect of the mobile phone industry’s growth is evident in the broader electronics sector. Mobile phone production now accounts for 43% of total electronics production in India. The electronics sector’s production value has more than doubled from $48 billion or Rs 4033.46 billion in FY17 to $101 billion or Rs 8487 billion in FY23, employing over 1.2 million people, according to government data. The growth is driven primarily by increased mobile phone production.

This remarkable journey from being a major importer to a leading exporter and manufacturer highlights India’s strategic initiatives and the robust potential of its manufacturing sector. As the nation continues on this trajectory, it solidifies its position as a global electronics hub, contributing significantly to economic growth and technological advancement.

By – Santosh Chaubey

Tunisians protest against President Kais Saied before October 6 election

By Rédaction Africanews

Crowds of Tunisians took to the streets once again to voice their discontent with President Kais Saied, as the country’s October 6 presidential election draws closer. They accuse Saied of limiting the number of opponents who can run against him.
One protester, Mustapha Ben Ali, said, “we came to protest to say that the president of the republic, who won five years of governance, does not want these elections to be fair now that his term has ended.”

Among the crowd were many young people, some of whom are refusing to vote on Sunday. “No, absolutely no, I won’t vote. Because first of all, there is no one in the candidates that I can vote for, but also what happened in the electoral process, it doesn’t have any guarantees for a transparent and free election,” said Siwar Gmati, aged 27.

Tunisia's electoral commission, appointed by Saied, has only approved two other candidates to run against him. In August, Human Rights Watch said authorities had ruled out several other potential candidates from running in the election through prosecution and imprisonment.


Analyst ponders if Tunisia's president can secure second term in Sunday's election


Copyright © africanewsAnis Mili/Copyright 2024 The AP. All rights reserved

By Rédaction Africanews 

Tunisia

With his major opponents imprisoned or left off the ballot, Tunisian President Kais Saied faces few obstacles to winning re-election on Sunday, five years after riding anti-establishment backlash to a first term.

The North African country's Oct. 6 presidential election is its third since protests led to the 2011 ouster of President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali — the first autocrat toppled in the Arab Spring uprisings that also overthrew leaders in Egypt, Libya and Yemen.

International observers praised the previous two contests as meeting democratic norms. However, a raft of arrests and actions taken by a Saied-appointed election authority have raised doubts about whether this year's race is free and fair. And opposition parties have called for a boycott.

Michael Ayari, Senior Analyst for Algeria & Tunisia at the International Crisis Group, told the Associated Press on Friday that questions loom over Tunisia's future trajectory.

“Will Saied’s rule last forever? That is the question. Is it possible to change the political system in a peaceful way? Or are Tunisians condemned to have a president who will stay in power for 30 years? Who will stay for 20 or 30 years and will put in place his program and the country will become more and more authoritarian?”

But, he added, President Saied does have ardent supporters, who see this election as a “key moment”, an opportunity for Saied to reinforce his “power to carry out his program to liberate the country from a kind of Western domination.”

Tunisia has maintained ties with its traditional Western allies but also forged new partnerships under Saied.

Tunisia and Iran lifted visa requirements and in May announced plans to boost trade ties. It has also accepted millions in loans as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative to build hospitals, stadiums and ports.

Additional sources • AP

Since he came to power in 2019, Saied has suspended parliament, and pushed through a new constitution to reinforce his own power.

His administration has clamped down on perceived opponents, arresting lawyers, journalists and activists.

Tunisia gears up for October 6th Presidential election

By Rédaction Africanews 

Last updated: 19 hours ago

Tunisia

As Tunisia is drawing ever closer to its Presidential election on October 6th, there are mixed feelings among the country's youth towards politics and the vote itself.

Citing a lack of opportunity, some aspire to move abroad. Seddik Malki, a fruit vendor, says, “I want to tell the youth: leave through the sea; there is nothing that keeps us here in Tunisia... I have no future here.”

Meanwhile, others are hopeful that the election will bring about change. "I hope that whoever wins the presidential elections will fix the country and pay attention to the youth, especially the high cost of living,'' Lotfi Hamdi, a 32-year-old street vendor, says.

Current president Kais Saied is seeking another term in the upcoming election. With his major opponents in prison or barred from running, Saied has been accused of stamping out his political competition and accumulating power in his own hands.

Only two candidates have been given the green light to run against Saied, who has suspended parliement since he came to power in 2019.

  

Around the world, Israel stands condemned – Peter Leary

4th October 20241 Commenton Around the world, Israel stands condemned – Peter Leary

The United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly for a historic resolution which called on Isreal to end its unlawful occupation. Shamefully, the British government abstained.

By Peter Leary

For almost a year, we have born witness to one of the darkest moments in the Palestinian people’s enduring struggle for liberation. In less than two weeks’ time, we will mark one year of Israels genocidal assault upon the people of the Gaza Strip – a genocide that has killed over 41,000 Palestinians, with thousands more missing presumed dead.

Now, not only is that genocide continuing, but alongside attacks on Palestinians right across their homeland we face the escalating violence against Lebanon, that began with what can only be described as acts of terrorism, followed by bombardment. More than 600 killed in just the past few days, as Isreal attempts to provoke a wider regional war.

In recent hours, the occupant of Downing Street – Keir Starmer – and other western leaders have issued calls for restraint and even for a ceasefire. But calling for a ceasefire, and calling for restraint, while continuing to supply weapons and refusing to apply any meaningful pressure on Israel to stop the slaughter, stinks of hypocrisy.

Last week, the United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly for a historic resolution supported by 70 per cent of states, which called on Isreal to end its unlawful occupation and withdraw all its forces and called on every country to cease any action that aids and assists the occupation, including trade with illegal settlements and shipping arms to Israel. Shamefully, the British government abstained.

But in the eyes of millions around the world, Israel stands condemned.

Right now, Israel is on trial for genocide. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for senior Israeli leaders – including Benjamin Netanyahu – for war crimes and crimes against humanity. And the International Court of Justice – the world court – has already judged that Israel is guilty of the crime of apartheid.

On Tuesday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underlined this truth, telling the United Nations that ‘South Africans know what apartheid looks like and will not remain silent…while apartheid is perpetrated against others.’

Tonight, you have shown that you will not remain silent either.

On Saturday, 28 September, we will be organising a Stop Arming Israel national day of action. Palestine Solidarity Campaign’s 100 branches will be taking action right across the country. 

On 5 October, we will return to the streets of London – to mark one whole year of genocide – with what will be the 20th National March for Palestine.

In the past twelve months, we have built one of the largest and most sustained protest movements in the history of this country, and on 5 October, we need you to march with us – not just in your thousands, not even in your tens of thousands, but in your hundreds of thousands, or half a million strong.

So, tell your friends, tell your family, tell your colleagues, tell your neighbours.

Join us on 5 October to send a clear message to the government, and to people of conscience around the world: End the genocide; Stop Arming Israel; Hands off Lebanon.

Because we will not be silenced. And, come rain, hail, or shine, we will be here, marching together, until Palestine is free!

---

• This was delivered as a speech at the Palestine Solidarity Campaign emergency protest at Downing Street, London on 26th September.
• Peter Leary is Deputy Director of Campaigns at Palestine Solidarity Campaign – you can follow him on x/twitter and follow PSC on x/twitter, facebook and instagram. 
• If you support Labour Outlook’s work amplifying the voices of left movements and struggles here and internationally, please consider becoming a supporter on Patreon.

Type your email…

100,000s to march for Palestine

4th October 2024International, PalestineLeave a Commenton 100,000s to march for Palestine

“Instead of condemning Israel’s aggression, the UK has given it political, diplomatic & military support.”

By the Palestine Solidarity Campaign

This Saturday, the Palestine solidarity movement marks one year of opposition to Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza with the 20th national March for Palestine since October 2023, coming in the context of Israel’s current attack on Lebanon and the threat of a wider regional war.

Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators will march through London to mark one year since Israel began its continuing genocidal assault on Gaza. More than 41 000 Palestinians have been killed, including approximately 17 000 children. Tens of thousands more are missing amidst the widespread destruction of social infrastructure that has displaced 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled this to be a plausible case of genocide – “acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part” a human group.

The UK, as a signatory to the Genocide Convention is obliged under international law to “prevent and punish” this crime, but successive governments have instead to chosen to shield and support Israel. Last month the Foreign Secretary David Lammy accepted that there is a clear risk that UK arms exports might be used to commit serious violations of international law, but his inadequate response was to suspend only 30 out of 350 arms export licenses to Israel. In particular, he excluded indirect exports of components to Israel for the F-35 combat aircraft, known to have been used to massacre civilians in Gaza.

On September 18th, the UN General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to affirm the historic ruling by the ICJ in July and trigger the legal obligation of all states to end complicity in Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territory and apartheid regime, including through an arms embargo. Shamefully, the UK abstained in the vote, following a pattern of complicity with Israel’s violations of international law.

Israel’s rejection of a ceasefire in Gaza and repeated attacks on neighbouring countries now threaten to spark a regional war. Instead of condemning Israel’s aggression, the UK has given it political, diplomatic and military support. Prime Minister Keir Starmer was quick to announce he “completely condemns” Iran’s missile strikes but he has never found these words to address Israel’s genocide in Gaza or attacks on Lebanon.

Ben Jamal, PSC Director, said, “On Saturday hundreds of thousands will march to mark one year of Israel’s genocide upon the Palestinian people, a genocide that has killed at least 41 000 Palestinians, destroyed Gaza’s social infrastructure and displaced over 2 million people. For months we have been warning that granting Israel impunity for its crimes would not only leave thousands of Palestinian civilians at risk of slaughter, but risk a wider conflagration. In the last week we have seen this reality unfold, with Isreal launching strikes on Lebanon and other neighbouring states that have killed over 1,000 people, including hundreds of civilians, many of them children. Now we stand on the brink of a major war. People will be marching on Saturday demanding an end to UK complicity with these crimes because they want the rights of Palestinians to be respected, International Law to be implemented without discrimination, and because they want peace. “

---

• The March leaves Russell Square at 12.00 on Saturday October 5, with a rally at Whitehall at 14.30. Speakers include MPs, union leaders and civil society figures.

Type your email…