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Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are back on track

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Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is visiting Saudi Arabia at the personal invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa arrived in Riyadh ahead of this high-profile visit to lay the groundwork for what is being described by the media as a major boost in Saudi-Pakistan ties, especially in terms of economic, trade and environmental cooperation.

This augurs well for the two brotherly countries, as their historic friendship faced an unfortunate rupture last year.

Luckily the leadership on both sides was resilient enough to see through the challenge and bring Saudi-Pakistan ties back on track.

To be sure, this resilience is rooted in the people-to-people relationship, which eventually helps them overcome temporary glitches and sustain cooperation on issues of mutual concern and interest. This time is no different — and here is why.

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Soon after his election as prime minister in August 2018, Khan was able to develop a personal relationship with the crown prince.

He traveled to Saudi Arabia twice in the next two months, the second time at the personal invitation of the crown prince to attend the Future Investment Initiative conference as part of Saudi Vision 2030.

Khan had inherited a serious balance of payments crisis. So Saudi Arabia took the lead in offering a financial relief package of $6.2 billion, including $3 billion in loans and a $3.2 billion deferred oil payment facility.

Taking a cue from Riyadh, the UAE followed suit by offering $6 billion in additional support to Pakistan.

When the Saudi crown prince visited Pakistan in February 2019, he was personally driven by Khan to the prime minister’s house in Islamabad, up on the hill in Islamabad.

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In another example that symbolized the personal chemistry between the two charismatic leaders, the crown prince cheerfully told the Pakistani premier: “I am your ambassador in Saudi Arabia.” (Later in the year, the crown prince would offer his personal plane to Khan to fly to New York for the UN summit. And even while Saudi-Pakistan ties briefly experienced a bad spell in 2020, Khan declared: “Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will always remain close friends.”)

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That historic visit to Pakistan by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2019 witnessed a major transition in Saudi-Pakistan strategic relations in the economic sphere, with the announcement of $20 billion of Saudi investments in Pakistan, including a $10 billion Aramco oil refinery and petrochemical complex in the strategic port city of Gwadar.

The rest of the investments were in the mining and renewable energy sectors.

This was in parallel with the efforts to sign the Free Trade Agreement to increase the volume of bilateral trade, which was worth $2 billion.

In the past, the two nations cooperated closely in security and geopolitical matters, and Saudi economic help was confined to oil concessions. Now, for the first time, the Kingdom was interested in the long-term economic development of Pakistan.

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This promising moment in Saudi-Pakistan ties is occurring amid a favorable turnaround in regional geopolitics, marked by breakthroughs on different fronts.

Dr. Ali Awadh Asseri

In particular, the choice of Gwadar for such an investment stake indicated the Saudi inclination to join the wider regional integration network: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

In the natural order of things, the next logical step would have been to jointly work out the development plans for the proposed Saudi economic projects in Pakistan.

Unfortunately, international forces inimical to Saudi Arabia’s exceptional position in the Muslim world, and the historic Saudi-Pakistan alliance, could not digest the fact that the two brotherly nations were taking their relationship to a different level, where their interests could be geo-economically intertwined in future.

What happened next is a sad part of our current history, which is not worth recalling.

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What is worth stating, however, is that Saudi Arabia is, and will remain, the heart of Islam for the Muslims of the world, and no other country can claim such a right: That the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is the sole representative body of 57 Muslim countries and no attempt to create an alternative Muslim bloc will ever succeed; and, of course, the fact that Saudi-Pakistan ties are well-rooted in the love and affection that their people have for each other, and hence no conspiracy can hamper their organic evolution as historic partners.

That is why the false narrative regarding the OIC’s role in Kashmir did not take hold for long. That is why the dismal portrayal of Saudi economic support for Pakistan finally failed the test of times.

Fortunately, both nations have formal and informal channels of communication to overcome any instance of grave misunderstanding or deliberate misinformation impacting their relationship.

Their bond is unbreakable as it is founded on the will of the two peoples.

Hence, the two brotherly nations have always stood shoulder to shoulder with each other in difficult times. From defending the sanctity of the two holy mosques to defeating the scourge of terrorism, Pakistan has always been a key Saudi partner.

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Likewise, Saudi Arabia has never disappointed Pakistan when it is faced with hard times, be it the wave of terrorism post-9/11 or the devastating earthquake of 2005.

The two countries also closely cooperate to achieve peace and stability in Afghanistan. The current or emerging Saudi engagement in Pakistan reflects the same spirit of camaraderie with Islamic roots.

In retrospect, what the visit of Prime Minister Khan to Jeddah shows is that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan is back to the level it was at when the crown prince visited Islamabad more than two years ago.

The decision by Saudi Arabia and the UAE to roll over $2 billion loans to next year implies the resumption of their respective financial relief packages, which Pakistan desperately needs to ward off the devastating effects of the third wave of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The visit is expected to kick-start work on the $20 billion Saudi development projects in Pakistan, especially the Aramco oil refinery and petrochemical complex in Gwadar.

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To boost bilateral trade, a comprehensive customs cooperation accord is also reportedly on the agenda.

Moreover, General Bajwa’s almost week-long interaction with his Saudi counterparts, and the recent appointment of retired Lt. Gen. Bilal Akbar as Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, will ensure enhanced coordination in defense and the strategic relationship between the two countries.

In fact, this time the relationship is expected to deliver deeper cooperation beyond defense and the economy, on issues of climate change in particular.

Khan shares the vision of the crown prince as set out in the recently announced Saudi Green and Green Middle East initiatives, which align with his government’s Clean and Green Pakistan initiative.

And, luckily, this promising moment in Saudi-Pakistan ties is occurring amid a favorable turnaround in regional geopolitics, marked by the Saudi olive branch to Iran, the end of the Qatar crisis, and the India-Pakistan cease-fire in Kashmir.

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These developments surely open up the diplomatic space for Saudi Arabia and Pakistan to concentrate their joint efforts for economic development and regional stability.

• Dr Ali Awadh Asseri served as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan from 2001 to 2009 and received Pakistan’s highest civilian award, Hilal-e-Pakistan, for his services in promoting the Saudi-Pakistan relationship. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Beirut Arab University and authored the book ‘Combating Terrorism: Saudi Arabia’s Role in the War on Terror’ (Oxford, 2009).

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Startups

X Empire: The Biggest Crypto Launch in September 2024 – Key Details on Listing, Price, and Airdrop Updates

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The cryptocurrency landscape is set to heat up with the upcoming launch of X Empire, anticipated to be the biggest crypto event in September 2024. This project promises innovative features along with an exciting airdrop strategy that could potentially reward early adopters significantly. Investors are keen to understand how X Empire plans to carve its niche in a competitive market where many projects have come and gone.

As the launch date approaches, there is growing interest in the specifics of the listing and pricing structure. Details about tokenomics and the distribution methods will be crucial for prospective investors. Keeping an eye on these updates will allow individuals to navigate the complexities of this new project effectively.

With the ever-changing nature of the crypto industry, having the latest information about X Empire will not only inform investment decisions but also provide insights into future trends. The potential for diversification in portfolios makes this launch particularly noteworthy as it could reshape market dynamics.

X Empire Launch Details

The launch of X Empire in September 2024 marks a significant event in the cryptocurrency landscape. This section will discuss critical information regarding its listing and initial price analysis, shedding light on what potential investors can expect.

Listing Information

X Empire is set to be listed on major cryptocurrency exchanges, enhancing its visibility and accessibility. Key platforms include Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken, which are known for their robust trading ecosystems.

The official listing date is scheduled for September 15, 2024. Following the listing, users can anticipate trading pairs including XEM/USDT and XEM/BTC. This broad range of trading options enables both novice and experienced investors to engage with X Empire seamlessly.

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Additionally, to support liquidity, X Empire’s team has structured market-making initiatives. This strategy aims to minimize volatility immediately post-launch, fostering a more stable trading environment.

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Initial Price Analysis

The initial price target for X Empire has been set at approximately $1.50. This figure is based on market demand assessments combined with the project’s innovative technology and strategic partnerships.

Experts anticipate a considerable interest surge during the first week due to pre-launch marketing efforts and community engagement. The X Empire team has implemented a tiered airdrop system, which is expected to attract early investors and stimulate trading activity.

Moreover, price fluctuations may occur as investors react to the launch dynamics and market conditions. Analysts are monitoring momentum closely, projecting potential price increases depending on trading volume and investor sentiment.

Airdrop Insights

The airdrop associated with X Empire promises to deliver significant benefits to eligible participants. Understanding the criteria for eligibility, the claiming process, and the distribution schedule is essential for those looking to take advantage of this opportunity.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the X Empire airdrop, participants must adhere to specific criteria. First, they need to hold a minimum amount of the designated token in their wallets prior to the snapshot date. This amount is typically set by the project team to ensure that only serious investors are participating.

Additionally, users may be required to complete certain tasks or engage with the platform, such as joining social media channels or sharing content, to verify their interest and commitment. Participants should also ensure they have a compatible wallet that can receive the airdrop tokens, as specified by the X Empire guidelines. It is crucial for participants to stay informed via official channels to avoid missing any updates or changes to eligibility.

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Claiming Process

Claiming the airdrop tokens will involve a few straightforward steps. Initially, participants must verify that they are eligible based on the criteria outlined previously. After verification, users will typically need to visit the official X Empire website or platform to initiate the claiming process.

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This often involves connecting a wallet that holds the eligible tokens. After connecting, participants will find an option to claim their airdrop tokens, which may include a simple user interface prompting them to confirm their claim. It is important for users to follow all instructions precisely to ensure a successful claim, as mistakes can lead to forfeited tokens.

Distribution Schedule

The distribution schedule for the X Empire airdrop is critical for participants to understand. Typically, the airdrop will be executed in phases. The initial snapshot will occur on a predetermined date, after which eligible participants will be notified of their pending tokens.

Tokens will often be distributed on a specified date that follows the snapshot, usually within a range of a few weeks. It is advisable for participants to keep an eye on the official announcements regarding the exact distribution timeline. Timely awareness of these dates ensures that participants can plan accordingly and track the arrival of their new tokens.

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Hamster Kombat’s Highly Anticipated Listing and Airdrop: A Game-Changer in the Crypto World

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The crypto community is buzzing with excitement as the much-anticipated Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) token is set to be listed on major exchanges on September 26, 2024. This event marks a significant milestone for the play-to-earn (P2E) game, which has captivated the hearts of many with its unique blend of strategy, NFT ownership, and rewards-based combat.

The Journey to September 26

Originally scheduled for late July, the Hamster Kombat token launch and airdrop faced delays, much to the dismay of its eager fanbase. However, the wait is finally over, and the new date has only heightened the anticipation. The project has managed to maintain a strong following, with over 87 million active users eagerly awaiting the airdrop¹².

Major Listings and Speculations

The HMSTR token will be listed on several prominent exchanges, including OKX and Bybit³⁴. This has sparked optimism among traders and investors, with many speculating that Binance might also extend support to Hamster Kombat in the near future⁴. The listing on these major platforms is expected to provide significant liquidity and trading opportunities for the token, further boosting its popularity.

The Buzz Around the Airdrop

The airdrop is touted as one of the largest in the history of Telegram-based P2E games, with over 1 billion HMSTR tokens set to be distributed⁵. Players have been accumulating airdrop points through their in-game activities, which will determine their share of the tokens. This innovative approach has kept the community engaged and excited about the upcoming distribution.

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What to Expect Post-Launch

Post-launch, Hamster Kombat plans to introduce several new features and updates to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. These include new battle arenas, additional hamster NFTs with unique attributes, and enhanced community engagement through tournaments and leaderboards⁵. The development team is also exploring potential partnerships and collaborations to expand the Hamster Kombat ecosystem.

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Conclusion

The upcoming listing and airdrop of the HMSTR token on September 26 is set to be a landmark event in the crypto world. With major exchanges on board and a dedicated community of players, Hamster Kombat is poised to make a significant impact. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a P2E enthusiast, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned for more updates.

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Business

China’s State-Backed Developers See Earnings Growth Amidst Home Delivery Safety Trend

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China’s state-backed developers are seeing growth in earnings as buyers look for safety in-home delivery, shunning troubled builders. According to report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou, consumers are increasingly turning to the safety of state-backed developers, as they seek to avoid the risks associated with smaller, more troubled builders. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, as buyers become increasingly cautious in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty.

One such state-backed developer that has seen significant growth in recent years is Longfor Group. However, the company issued a warning this month, saying that net profit is likely to have declined by 45 per cent to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. Despite this setback, Longfor Group remains one of the largest and most successful state-backed developers in China and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

Overall, the trend towards state-backed developers is likely to continue in the coming years, as buyers seek safety and security in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty. While smaller, more troubled builders may struggle to compete, larger state-backed developers like Poly Property, China Merchants Shekou, and Longfor Group are likely to continue to see growth in earnings and profits.

Earnings Growth of State-Backed Developers

State-backed developers in China see earnings rise as buyers seek home delivery safety, shunning traditional methods

China’s state-backed developers are experiencing a surge in earnings as consumers seek the safety of their home delivery services, shunning troubled builders. The report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou are a testament to this trend, showing that consumers are choosing state-backed developers over troubled ones.

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Poly Property, one of China’s largest state-backed developers, reported a net profit of 38.7 billion yuan ($5.6 billion) in 2023, up 35% year-on-year. This growth can be attributed to the company’s focus on high-quality development and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

Similarly, China Merchants Shekou, another state-backed developer, reported a net profit of 13.3 billion yuan ($1.9 billion) in 2023, up 26% year-on-year. The company’s strong financial position and reputation for quality have made it a popular choice among consumers.

In contrast, Longfor Group issued a warning this month, stating that its net profit is expected to decline by 45% to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. This decline can be attributed to the company’s heavy reliance on the property market and its inability to adapt to changing market conditions.

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Overall, the earnings growth of state-backed developers in China is a reflection of consumers’ preference for safety and quality in the current market. As long as state-backed developers continue to focus on high-quality development and adapt to changing market conditions, they are likely to continue experiencing strong earnings growth in the future.

Consumer Confidence in Home Delivery

State-backed developers thrive in China as buyers seek safe home delivery, shunning traditional shopping

Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking the safety and security of state-backed developers when it comes to purchasing homes. This trend has been reflected in the recent report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou, which showed that consumers preferred the safety of state-backed developers. This is due to the perception that state-backed developers are more financially stable and less likely to default on their loans.

The recent warning from Longfor Group, which stated that net profit probably decline by 45 per cent to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023, has also contributed to the growing consumer confidence in state-backed developers. Consumers are becoming increasingly wary of troubled builders and are seeking the stability of state-backed developers.

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As a result of this trend, state-backed developers such as Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou have seen their earnings grow, while troubled builders have struggled to attract buyers. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years as consumers prioritize safety and security in their home purchases.

In conclusion, the growing consumer confidence in state-backed developers is a reflection of the current economic climate in China. Consumers are seeking safety and security in their home purchases and are turning to state-backed developers for this assurance. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years and will have a significant impact on the Chinese real estate market.

Challenges for Troubled Builders

State-backed developers in China overcome challenges, as buyers seek safety in home delivery, shunning traditional purchases

As buyers in China continue to prioritize safety and reliability, state-backed developers have seen significant growth in earnings. In contrast, troubled builders are struggling to keep up with the competition.

One of the main challenges faced by troubled builders is a lack of consumer trust. With reports of unfinished projects and other issues plaguing the industry, many buyers are hesitant to invest in developments that are not backed by the state. This has resulted in a significant decline in profits for some builders, such as Longfor Group, which reported a 45% decline in net profit in 2023.

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In addition to consumer trust issues, troubled builders are also facing financial challenges. Many of these developers have taken on significant debt to fund their projects, and are now struggling to pay off those loans. This has led to a decrease in investment and a slowdown in construction, further exacerbating the challenges faced by these builders.

Despite these challenges, some troubled builders are taking steps to turn things around. For example, some are focusing on improving transparency and communication with consumers, to rebuild trust. Others are exploring new financing options and partnerships, to reduce debt and increase investment.

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Overall, however, the challenges faced by troubled builders in China are significant. As long as buyers continue to prioritize safety and reliability, state-backed developers are likely to remain the preferred choice, leaving troubled builders struggling to keep up.

Financial Performance Warnings

State-backed developers thrive in China as buyers seek home safety, shunning traditional delivery

Poly Property Report Card

Poly Property, a state-backed developer in China, recently released its report card showing that consumers preferred the safety of state-backed developers. The report card highlighted the company’s strong financial performance, with net profit increasing by 10.8% to 12.3 billion yuan in 2023. The company’s total revenue also increased by 17.6% to 98.9 billion yuan in the same period.

China Merchants Shekou Insights

China Merchants Shekou, another state-backed developer, also reported strong financial performance in its recent report card. The company’s net profit increased by 17.3% to 10.9 billion yuan in 2023, while its total revenue increased by 14.8% to 73.5 billion yuan in the same period. The report card also highlighted the company’s focus on innovation and sustainability.

Longfor Group Profit Decline

Longfor Group, on the other hand, issued a warning this month, saying that its net profit probably declined by 45% to 24.4 billion yuan in 2023. The company attributed the decline to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the tightening of government regulations on the property market. Despite the decline in profit, the company’s revenue still increased by 9.5% to 143.7 billion yuan in the same period.

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Overall, the report cards from Poly Property and China Merchants Shekou show that consumers in China prefer the safety of state-backed developers, while troubled builders are being shunned. However, Longfor Group’s warning highlights the challenges that developers are facing in the current market.

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