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Venezuela interim president pushes back against US interference

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CARACAS, Jan 26 (ABC) : Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodríguez said Sunday she has “had enough” of what she described as orders from the United States, as political tensions persist following the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro by US forces.

Addressing a gathering of oil workers in Puerto La Cruz, Rodríguez criticised continued pressure from Washington and reiterated her call for Venezuelan politics to resolve internal disputes without foreign direction. “Enough already of Washington’s orders over politicians in Venezuela,” she told the audience, in remarks broadcast on state television.

Rodríguez — who was Maduro’s vice president before assuming the interim presidency — has sought to balance domestic demands with external pressures since being endorsed by the United States to lead the country temporarily. Her refusal to accept outside dictates reflects broader frustration within parts of Venezuela’s leadership about foreign involvement.

Her remarks come nearly a month after US military operations in early January resulted in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being taken to the United States to face criminal charges, a development that has deepened political divisions at home and drawn international attention.

Despite her critique, Rodríguez has also emphasised the need for national unity and dialogue with opposition groups to address Venezuela’s political and economic challenges. Local reports note efforts to resolve internal conflicts without escalating external tensions.

Separately, Venezuela has been releasing political prisoners and pushing for domestic reconciliation as part of the interim government’s broader efforts to stabilise the country amid competing internal factions loyal to the late Hugo Chávez, Maduro loyalists, and reformist groups calling for change.

Public sentiment remains mixed: some Venezuelans seek democratic reform and reduced external interference, while others express concern about security and the broader direction of the country’s governance.

Studies link migraines to multiple health conditions

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 Jan 26 (ABC) :Migraine headaches do not directly cause other diseases, but research shows they are associated with a wide range of medical conditions, some of which can share similar symptoms or occur more frequently in people who experience migraines.

Doctors note that certain serious illnesses, including stroke and seizures, can sometimes be mistaken for migraines. Migraines with aura or sudden-onset “thunderclap” migraines may resemble stroke symptoms such as severe headache and vomiting. However, migraine pain usually builds gradually, while stroke symptoms appear suddenly. Warning signs of stroke include facial drooping, weakness or numbness in one arm, and difficulty speaking. Medical help should be sought immediately if a stroke is suspected.

Heart disease is more common among people with migraines, particularly men and women who experience migraines with aura. While the frequency of migraines does not appear to increase the risk, studies show a higher overall likelihood of heart-related conditions in migraine sufferers.

High blood pressure has not been conclusively linked to migraines, but evidence suggests it may increase how often headaches occur. Migraines are also strongly associated with seizures, with research showing that people with migraines are at least twice as likely to experience epilepsy. While migraine aura and seizures can share symptoms such as visual disturbances, seizures tend to be brief, while migraine aura can last up to an hour, followed by headaches lasting several hours.

Hearing-related issues, including sudden hearing loss, are also more common in people with migraines, though the condition remains rare overall. Fibromyalgia, a disorder marked by widespread pain and fatigue, frequently occurs alongside migraines, but there is no proof that migraines directly cause it.

Mental health conditions show a strong connection with migraines. Anxiety and depression are common among migraine sufferers, particularly those who experience aura. Post-traumatic stress disorder has also been found to occur at much higher rates in people with migraines.

Pregnancy-related complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia have been linked to migraines in some studies, though researchers say more data is needed. Doctors advise people with migraines to consult specialists before pregnancy, as symptoms may worsen and treatment plans may need adjustment.

Digestive and sleep disorders are also more prevalent among migraine patients. Research suggests people with migraines are significantly more likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome, possibly due to shared involvement of serotonin, a key brain chemical. Restless legs syndrome and insomnia are also common, with poor sleep often acting as a migraine trigger.

Other conditions may closely resemble migraines, including tension headaches, sinus headaches, brain aneurysms, brain tumors, meningitis, glaucoma, and rare neurological disorders such as reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome and idiopathic intracranial hypertension. In these cases, sudden onset, worsening symptoms, fever, vision loss, or severe pain may point to a more serious cause and require urgent medical attention.

Experts say migraine sufferers, especially those with aura, face a slightly higher risk of stroke, particularly women and people under the age of 45. However, this risk declines significantly after the age of 50.

Doctors emphasize that while migraines are linked to many conditions, early diagnosis and awareness of warning signs can help prevent serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes.

Mistaken frown turns plush horse into viral hit in China

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YIWU, China, Jan 26 (ABC) : A manufacturing error has transformed a Lunar New Year decoration into an unlikely viral sensation in China, as shoppers flock to buy a plush toy now known online as the “crying horse.”

At Yiwu International Trade City, the country’s largest wholesale market, customers have been crowding into a small shop in search of the red plush horse ahead of the Spring Festival, which this year ushers in the Year of the Horse under the Chinese zodiac.

Originally designed with a cheerful smile, the toy ended up with a downturned mouth after a worker accidentally stitched it upside down, giving the horse a sad expression. The design flaw quickly caught attention on Chinese social media.

“A worker sewed the mouth the wrong way by mistake,” said Zhang Huoqing, owner of the Yiwu-based shop Happy Sister.

Zhang said she initially offered a refund when the error was discovered, but the customer never returned the toy. Soon after, images of the frowning horse began circulating online, accompanied by jokes and memes.

“People said the crying horse shows how you look at work, while the smiling one is how you look after work,” Zhang said.

As interest surged, Zhang decided to continue producing the sad-faced version, which many young office workers say reflects their long hours and job-related stress.

The toy’s popularity also aligns with China’s growing appetite for “ugly-cute” products — a trend driven in recent years by quirky characters such as Pop Mart’s toothy monster Labubu.

“Almost everyone who comes in now asks for the crying horse,” said Lou Zhenxian, a Yiwu vendor with more than two decades of experience selling festive toys.

By early afternoon, shelves displaying the toy were already empty, with staff rushing to restock.

“We’ll keep selling it,” Zhang said. “This crying horse really matches the reality of modern working life.”

American Anisimova beats Wang to reach Australian Open last eight

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MELBOURNE, Jan 26 (ABC) : Fourth seed Amanda Anisimova continued her impressive run at the Australian Open on Monday, defeating China’s Wang Xinyu 7-6(4), 6-4 to advance to the quarter-finals, where she will face fellow American Jessica Pegula.

The 24-year-old has been in commanding form at Melbourne Park, reaching the last eight without dropping a set as she pushes for her first Grand Slam title following runner-up finishes at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2025.

“I’m feeling great — it was a real battle,” Anisimova said after the match.

The opening set was closely contested, with Anisimova struggling to find consistency early on as Wang matched her shot for shot. Backed by loud support from Chinese fans, Wang saved a set point before Anisimova edged ahead to claim the tiebreak.

The crowd continued to rally behind Wang with chants of “Jia You” in the second set as she broke serve early, but momentum swung back when she was unable to hold serve again moments later.

“There were a lot of Chinese fans today, and honestly, it made the atmosphere really exciting,” Anisimova said. “They were very loud, but it added great energy to the match. I really appreciated everyone staying through the heat.”

Wang later took a medical timeout to receive treatment on her right thigh and returned with heavy strapping, but she was unable to halt Anisimova’s charge. The American consolidated her break and maintained control to close out the match.

Anisimova sealed victory with a powerful ace — her seventh of the contest — booking her place in an all-American quarter-final lineup and keeping her title hopes firmly alive.

Extreme cold and snow leave multiple dead across US

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WASHINGTON Jan 26 (ABC): A powerful winter storm sweeping across large parts of the United States has claimed at least 10 lives, triggered widespread power outages and flight disruptions, and prompted authorities to warn residents to stay off the roads as freezing conditions persist.

The storm brought heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain across multiple regions, while officials warned that an Arctic air mass trailing the system would push temperatures to dangerously low levels for several days. The US National Weather Service said severe winter conditions were expected to continue into Monday.

In New York, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said five people were found dead outdoors over the weekend amid freezing temperatures, noting that the deaths highlighted the dangers of extreme cold. In Texas, three deaths were confirmed, including that of a 16-year-old girl who died in a sledding accident.

Louisiana health officials reported two deaths caused by hypothermia.

According to PowerOutage.com, more than 840,000 customers were without electricity nationwide by Sunday night, with the majority of outages reported in southern states where the storm intensified over the weekend. Tennessee alone recorded more than 300,000 power outages after ice brought down power lines, while Louisiana, Mississippi and Georgia each reported more than 100,000 customers without power.

Authorities across several states, including Texas, North Carolina, New York and others, urged residents to remain indoors due to hazardous travel conditions. Emergency declarations were issued in at least 20 states and in Washington, DC.

The storm moved into the northeastern United States on Sunday, blanketing cities such as Philadelphia, New York and Boston with snow and sleet. In Washington, several inches of snow were followed by freezing rain, leading to the closure of federal offices on Monday.

Major airports in Washington, Philadelphia and New York saw widespread flight cancellations. Flight tracking data showed more than 19,000 flights nationwide had been cancelled since Saturday.

President Donald Trump said on social media that federal authorities were monitoring the situation and coordinating with states affected by the storm.

Meteorologists attributed the extreme weather to a disrupted polar vortex, a system that allows Arctic air to spill southward. The National Weather Service warned that the cold could persist for up to a week in some areas, with wind chills in parts of the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest expected to drop below minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit, posing serious risks of frostbite within minutes.

Pakistan stocks cross 190,000 as investors await rate cut

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 26 (ABC): The Pakistan Stock Exchange extended its rally on Monday as the benchmark KSE-100 Index crossed the 190,000 level for the first time. Investors remained cautious but optimistic ahead of the State Bank of Pakistan’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting.

Index crosses 190,000 level

By 12pm, the KSE-100 Index had gained 1,354.59 points, or 0.72 per cent, to reach 190,521.41. This came after the previous close of 189,166.82. During mid-session trading, the index moved within a narrow range.

The market touched a high of 191,032.73 and a low of 189,712.78. The movement showed steady buying interest rather than aggressive trading.

Rate cut hopes lift sentiment

Market participants said expectations of a policy rate cut were the main driver of sentiment. The benchmark interest rate currently stands at 10.5 per cent. Investors expect easing due to slowing inflation and a stable rupee.

Foreign exchange reserves have also improved in recent weeks. These factors have strengthened confidence ahead of the policy decision.

Treasury bill auction adds confidence

Sentiment improved further after the government lowered cut-off yields at its treasury bills auction on January 21. Most tenors fell to single-digit levels. This was the first such move in nearly four years.

Analysts said the auction outcome increased expectations of a rate cut later today.

Trading volumes remain strong

Market activity stayed healthy during the session. By noon, 171.3 million shares had been traded. Market value turnover stood at around Rs23.0 billion.

Analysts said afternoon trading will be important. They are watching to see if the index can hold its gains by the close.

Geopolitical calm supports market

Easing geopolitical tensions also supported equities. Signs of stabilisation on the US-Iran front helped improve investor confidence.

Huzaifa Riaz, Director at Mayari Securities (Pvt) Limited, said the market opened higher due to improved global sentiment. However, he noted that investors remained cautious ahead of the policy announcement.

He added that most market participants expect a 50-basis-point rate cut. A more dovish decision could further boost equities.

Positive outlook, risks remain

Analysts expect a positive tone in the near term. Investors are positioning for lower interest rates and continued reforms. Lower yields and improving external indicators are supporting risk appetite.

However, analysts warned that profit-taking near record levels could limit short-term gains.

Macroeconomic data strengthens case

Recent data has also supported market sentiment. In December 2025, the current account recorded a deficit of $244 million. Foreign direct investment posted a net outflow of $135 million.

Power generation rose 8.8 per cent year-on-year. Information technology exports reached a record $437 million, up 26 per cent.

Foreign exchange reserves increased to $16.1 billion. The rupee also appreciated 0.03 per cent to close at 279.86 per US dollar.

Market momentum builds

Over the previous week, the KSE-100 Index gained 4,068 points, or 2.2 per cent, to close at 189,167. Average daily volumes rose 8.7 per cent to 1.3 billion shares.

Analysts said sustained volumes show strong participation as the market moves to new highs.

Three historic monuments unveiled at Lahore Fort

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LAHORE, Jan 25 (ABC): Three historic monuments at the Lahore Fort reopened to the public on Sunday after the completion of US-funded conservation work.

The restored monuments include the Sikh-era Hammam, the Athdara Pavilion, and the Loh Temple. The work was funded through the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. Meanwhile, the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan (AKCS-P) carried out the project in partnership with the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA).

Heritage project preserves multiple eras

The unveiling took place under a broader project titled Preservation and Promotion of Cross-Cultural Edifices of Lahore Fort. The initiative aims to protect the Fort’s diverse cultural history.

Earlier, the same programme restored the Sikh-era Temple and the Imperial Zenana Mosque. As a result, conservation work now covers seven important monuments inside the Fort. These sites reflect Mughal, Sikh, Hindu, and British influences.

Historical value of restored sites

The Loh Temple complex stands near the Alamgiri Gate. It contains connected chambers and ritual features linked to Hindu traditions. At the same time, the structure also shows elements from the Sikh period.

Meanwhile, the Athdara Pavilion lies in the northwest section of the Shah Jahan Forecourt Quadrangle. Builders constructed it during the Sikh era. Historically, it served as a public court where Maharaja Ranjit Singh held audiences.

The Sikh Hammam is located near the Sheesh Mahal Quadrangle. Mughal builders first constructed it during Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign. Later, Sikh rulers converted it into a hammam. Even today, fine oil paintings remain visible on its walls.

Ceremony highlights partnership

The inauguration ceremony took place at the Shah Burj Forecourt. Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, attended as the chief guest. Meanwhile, Sandeep Paul, Public Affairs Officer at the US Consulate in Lahore, joined as the guest of honour.

Academics, government officials, and members of the arts community also attended the event. First, Tausif Khawaja, Chief Executive Officer of AKCS-P, delivered opening remarks. Later, Sandeep Paul and WCLA Director General Najamus Saqib addressed the gathering.

US-Pakistan cooperation stressed

Speaking at the ceremony, Sandeep Paul highlighted cultural preservation as an important area of cooperation between the United States and Pakistan.

He said preserving heritage supports future growth. Moreover, he noted that restored monuments attract visitors and create economic opportunities. As a result, they strengthen people-to-people ties.

Cultural harmony highlighted

Tausif Khawaja described the restored monuments as symbols of cultural harmony. He said the Loh Temple holds both historical and religious value. Many visitors from across the border also come to see it.

He added that the Athdara Pavilion holds deep importance for the Sikh community. Although the structure appears simple, it played a key role during Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s rule. Behind it, the Sikh Hammam displays delicate artwork from the same period.

Conservation process explained

Wajahat Ali, Director of Conservation and Design at AKCS-P, explained the restoration process through a detailed presentation. He discussed the original condition of the sites. He also outlined the challenges and techniques used during conservation.

Najamus Saqib said the Lahore Fort represents many historical periods. Therefore, preserving each layer helps future generations understand its full history.

Message of inclusivity

Addressing the audience, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said the project reflects Punjab’s inclusive heritage. He added that the restored sites highlight Lahore’s long tradition of religious and cultural coexistence.

The programme concluded with ribbon-cutting ceremonies at all three monuments. Afterwards, guests visited the restored sites. Finally, Luis Monréal, General Manager of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, presented souvenirs to the dignitaries.

1,900 prisoners enrolled in literacy programmes at 48 prisons

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (APP): Around 1,900 prisoners enrolled in literacy programmes at 48 prisons across Pakistan during 2023–25 as part of ongoing prison reform efforts.

Education supports rehabilitation
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the literacy initiative plays an important role in prison reforms and focuses on rehabilitation and social reintegration of inmates.

The programme targets prisoners who cannot read or write. As a result, it helps them gain basic literacy skills needed for daily life. These skills also improve their chances of finding work after release.

Nationwide expansion planned
Meanwhile, authorities plan to launch the next phase of the literacy programme in all prisons in 2026. This expansion will make education a regular part of prison management across the country.

In addition, officials believe wider access to education will support long-term reform goals and help inmates adjust better after completing their sentences.

Drug rehabilitation alongside literacy
At the same time, prison authorities have set up drug rehabilitation centres in several prisons. These centres provide treatment and counselling to inmates facing drug addiction.

Through these services, officials aim to support recovery and help prisoners return to society as productive citizens.

Human rights remain central
Experts stress that prison reforms must align with human rights principles. Therefore, education and health-based programmes remain essential as they help reduce repeat offences and improve reintegration outcomes.

Sindh distributes over 170,000 solar kits, 30,000 more planned

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (ABC): The Sindh government has distributed 170,383 Solar Home Systems to households across the province under the Sindh Solar Energy Project (SSEP), aimed at expanding access to clean and affordable electricity.

Project scope and targets

According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the project is part of a wider plan to provide 200,000 solar home systems to households and install solar solutions on public buildings across Sindh. The initiative mainly targets areas with limited or unreliable access to grid electricity.

The project was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council in November 2018. Its objective is to reduce the province’s energy shortfall by promoting renewable and sustainable power sources.

Deadline extended to ensure delivery

Initially, the distribution of solar kits was scheduled to be completed by September 30, 2023. However, authorities later extended the deadline to July 31, 2025 to overcome logistical challenges and ensure that the kits reach intended beneficiaries.

So far, 170,383 kits have been delivered against the total target of 200,000.

Focus on low-income households

The solar kits were distributed through the Benazir Income Support Programme, with priority given to low-income families across the province. The programme aims to provide basic energy access to households that struggle with rising electricity costs and frequent power outages.

Next phase targets rural areas

The Sindh government has now shifted its focus to the remaining 30,000 solar kits, which are set to be distributed in rural and underserved regions. Officials are prioritising remote areas where access to conventional electricity remains limited or unavailable.

Impact on communities and environment

The project has already made a visible impact on local communities. Solar energy offers a reliable and clean alternative to traditional power sources, especially in rural areas. In addition, the initiative supports environmental sustainability by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

With the remaining kits expected to be distributed in the coming months, the Sindh Solar Energy Project is set to further strengthen energy access and improve living standards for thousands of households across the province.

Cabinet approves Pakistan’s entry into Trump-led Board of Peace

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LONDON, Jan 24 (ABC): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday that the federal cabinet had approved Pakistan’s decision to join the Board of Peace, led by US President Donald Trump.

Speaking to reporters outside the Pakistan High Commission in London, the prime minister said Pakistan accepted the invitation only after cabinet approval.

Cabinet endorsement before acceptance

The prime minister said President Trump invited Pakistan to join the Board of Peace. He added that the government discussed the matter in detail before making a decision.

After the cabinet’s approval, he formally accepted the invitation and signed the charter at Davos.

Hope for peace in Gaza

PM Shehbaz said Pakistan joined the initiative with the hope that peace would return to Gaza. He said Palestinians deserved dignity, justice, and reconstruction after years of suffering.

He stressed that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza needed urgent global action. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing support for Palestinian rights.

Board’s wider mandate

The Board of Peace was first created to support peace efforts in Gaza after Israel’s extended military campaign. However, its charter also gives it a broader role in addressing global conflicts.

Leaders and senior officials from 19 countries, including Pakistan, signed the charter during the World Economic Forum in Davos.

IMF meeting described as positive

The prime minister called his Davos visit productive. He also met Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund.

He described the meeting as positive but did not share details. He said Pakistan would continue working with international financial institutions to stabilise its economy.

Regional security remarks

Commenting on regional security, PM Shehbaz said he thanked President Trump for what he described as efforts to prevent a wider conflict in South Asia. He did not provide further details.

Government responds to criticism

Prime Minister’s aide Rana Sanaullah said the cabinet had fully discussed the issue before approving Pakistan’s participation.

The decision has faced criticism from some political leaders and analysts. However, the government defended the move in parliament, saying Pakistan joined the initiative in the interest of peace and Gaza’s reconstruction.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s presence on a global peace platform alongside Muslim countries should be seen as a diplomatic success.