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Showing posts from March, 2024

PM announces 100,000 free laptops for students PM says distribution of laptops will cover all four provinces and will be based purely on merit, without any nepotism

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the distribution of 100,000 free laptops among talented students across the country on merit, during an International Youth Day event in Islamabad on Tuesday. Premier stated that the distribution of these laptops will cover all four provinces, the federal capital Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir, and will be based purely on merit, without any nepotism. He added that these laptops would be separate from the scheme for laptops through interest-based loans. Referring to Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, the prime minister mentioned that Pakistan’s victory on May 10 against a numerically larger and more boastful enemy had instilled a new vigour in the entire nation. He urged the youth to build on the spirit of this achievement and work hard to bring honour to the country. Earlier, during the ceremony, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, Rana Mashhood, said the government’s merit-based programs for youth had enabled talented and des...
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Possibility of Petrol Price Increase by Rs50 per Litre from April 1

The impending announcement of a potential increase in petrol prices has sparked concerns among the public in Pakistan. Speculations have arisen that petrol prices may surge by Rs50 per litre starting from April 1. This article explores the factors contributing to this possible price hike and the impact it may have on the country's business and economy. The IMF's Demand for GST Reintroduction: According to reports, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been urging the Pakistani government to reintroduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a standard rate of 18%. If the authorities concede to this demand, it could lead to a substantial increase in petrol prices. The estimated rise without taxes is already set at Rs10 per litre. Factors Driving the Price Increase: The recent surge in petrol prices is attributed to multiple factors. One significant factor is the increase in the premium on petrol, which has risen from $12.15 per barrel to $13.50 per barrel. This increment of $1....
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PIA Air Hostess Arrested in Canada for Carrying Multiple Passports

Islamabad - In a major embarrassment for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), one of its air hostesses has been arrested by the Canadian authorities for carrying multiple passports not belonging to her.  Hina Sani, a flight attendant with PIA, was held after she landed in Toronto, Canada on March 29 via Pakistan International Airlines flight PK-789 from Pakistan. According to sources, during the immigration clearance at the Toronto airport, the Canadian authorities found multiple passports from Hina Sani's baggage that belonged to different individuals other than her.  Confirming the incident, a PIA spokesperson said air hostess Hina Sani has been arrested by the Canadian police for carrying someone else's passports. It is believed that Sani is related to a famous Pakistani singer but the identity of the singer has not been disclosed.  Sources privy to the matter revealed that seven other flight attendants who were traveling with Hina Sani on the same aircraft to Toront...
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Rising Concerns Over Pollen Allergies in Islamabad

Residents of the capital city Islamabad have started voicing worries regarding the start of pollen season and the allergic reactions it can cause. According to the Meteorological Department, pollen counts have already begun rising to significant levels.  In its recent daily monitoring report, the met office identified paper mulberry trees as a major source of pollen currently. Pollen counts from paper mulberry trees reached 560 particles per cubic meter of air. Pine trees and grasses were also contributing, with counts of 139 and 63 particles per cubic meter respectively.  The overall pollen count across all species in Islamabad on Sunday, the first day of the season, was recorded at an elevated level of 845 particles per cubic meter. If conditions remain dry and windy, expert Dr. M. Afzaal from the Meteorological Department warned pollen counts could spread substantially.  Pollen counts have been known to peak as high as 45,000 particles per cubic meter between March and...
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Babar Azam Set to Reclaim Captaincy of Pakistan Cricket Team

In a significant development for Pakistan cricket, star batter Babar Azam is expected to be named captain of the national cricket team once again. This decision comes after Babar stepped down as captain from all formats of the game following Pakistan's disappointing performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials have reportedly reached out to Babar Azam, and a meeting is scheduled to take place before his departure to Abbottabad for a fitness camp at the military academy Kakul. This article will explore the reasons behind Babar Azam's anticipated return to captaincy and its potential impact on Pakistan cricket. Babar Azam's Resignation: Babar Azam's decision to step down as captain came after Pakistan's underwhelming performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The team failed to qualify for the semifinals, losing five out of the nine group-stage fixtures. Recognizing the need for change, Babar decided to relinquish his c...
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PTI Leaders and Social Media Team Clash Over Shahid Afridi Controversy

In the world of politics and social media, controversies often arise, creating rifts within political parties. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is currently facing such a situation, as its leaders and social media team find themselves at odds over a recent controversy involving former cricketer Shahid Afridi. This article will delve into the details of the dispute, shedding light on the different perspectives and implications for the party. The Emergence of the Controversy: The controversy surrounding Shahid Afridi began when an old video of him discussing various political matters, including the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan, started circulating on social media. The video, recorded during Afridi's visit to London in 2022 to raise funds for his charitable organization, sparked a heated debate among PTI supporters and the party's social media team. PTI Leaders Blame Social Media Team: Two prominent PTI leaders, Sher Afzal Marwat and Ali Muhammad Khan, ...
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Six Injured in Officials' Squabble at Torkham Border Crossing

The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan witnessed a disturbing incident on Sunday, resulting in six members of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) being injured during an altercation with Pakistani border guards. The clash led to the closure of the border crossing for over four hours, causing inconvenience to travelers and trade activities. Both the FIA and Frontier Corps have provided conflicting accounts of the incident, each accusing the other of malpractice and interference in their official responsibilities. According to the immigration staff, including one of the injured, the border guards allegedly pressured them to allow an Afghan national to cross the border without undergoing necessary immigration formalities. The immigration staff claimed that the Afghan individual possessed a fake travel document. The situation escalated when security personnel allegedly assaulted the FIA officer who refused to allow the Afghan national to cross. Subsequently, a grou...
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Apple vs US Antitrust Lawsuit: Unraveling the DOJ's Case Against Apple's iPhone Practices

The tech industry is abuzz with the news of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filing an antitrust lawsuit against Apple, alleging monopolistic practices related to its iPhone ecosystem. This lawsuit, which follows previous antitrust cases against Apple, has far-reaching implications for the company and the wider technology landscape. In this article, we will explore the key details and ongoing developments of the Apple vs US antitrust lawsuit, shedding light on the DOJ's claims and Apple's response. The DOJ's Allegations Against Apple: The DOJ's lawsuit centers around several areas in which Apple is accused of stifling competition: 1. "Super" Apps: The DOJ claims that Apple has actively suppressed the success of applications that offer multiple functions within a single app. By inhibiting the growth of these "super" apps, Apple allegedly aims to maintain its customers' dependence on the iPhone. 2. Messaging Apps : A notable aspect of the lawsu...
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Exposing Bias: Sarah Leah Whitson and Dawn's Dubious Advocacy

The importance of powerful voices in a world full of intricate geopolitical conflicts cannot be overstated. Sarah Leah Whitson's open endorsement of radical groups, most notably the Houthis, has drawn criticism and worry recently. This worrying position, brought to light in a recent tweet, exposes a larger pattern of prejudiced lobbying that jeopardises the stability and security of the world. It is extremely concerning that Sarah Leah Whitson is defending the Houthis, a group well-known for their brutal methods and radical ideologies. Whitson unintentionally gives respectability to a group renowned for promoting death and terror by magnifying their story. Her latest tweet is only the beginning of what she has revealed—a worrying trend of sympathy for radical beliefs. Whitson's dubious appearances on respectable news outlets including Al Jazeera, the BBC, CNN, and MSNBC also raise serious concerns. Respected for their dedication to journalistic ethics, these platforms shouldn...
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When Instagram Suffered Outage Today, Internet Began the Day with Memes

In a surprising turn of events, Instagram, the popular photo-sharing platform, experienced a global outage recently, leaving users unable to access their accounts and view posts. However, while some might have been frustrated by the disruption, a section of the internet swiftly turned to humor and creativity, using memes to lighten the situation. This article explores the reaction of social media users to the Instagram outage and showcases some of the best memes that emerged during this unexpected downtime. 1. Instagram's Significant Downtime: On a Friday morning, Instagram users worldwide faced difficulties as the platform suffered a significant downtime. Many users reported being unable to access their accounts and view posts, causing frustration among the Instagram community. Despite these issues, a section of the internet responded with a sense of humor, using memes to express their feelings and confirm the news of the outage. 2. The Power of Memes: Memes, a form of internet hu...
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The UAE's Quest to Become an AI Power: A Journey of Innovation and Collaboration

In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has set its sights on becoming a global leader in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Through strategic investments and ambitious initiatives, the UAE is making significant progress towards its mission of harnessing AI's potential to transform various sectors of its economy and society. This article delves into the UAE's journey to become an AI power, highlighting key developments, partnerships, and the impact on the nation's overall well-being. 1. The Falcon AI Model:  At the heart of the UAE's AI endeavor is the Falcon AI model. Developed by the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), this open-source model has garnered international recognition for its exceptional performance and capabilities. The ATRC's decision to release Falcon for free has not only bolstered the UAE's reputation but has also showcased the nation's commitment to sharing knowledge and driving global AI advancements. 2. Profilin...
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The Do's and Don'ts of Fasting according to Islamic Teachings

  Understanding Fasting Guidelines in Ramadan Ramadan is a month of spiritual reflection and sacrifice as Muslims around the world observe the holy month through prayer, acts of worship, and fasting from dawn to dusk. While fasting brings us closer to God, it is important to follow guidelines that preserve health and prioritize well-being.  Certain acts do not invalidate the fast according to Islamic scholars. Drawing blood for medical tests or donating blood to save a life does not break the fast. Putting drops in the ears or gargling water is also permitted. Most agree that accidental swallowing of saliva does not break the fast. Regarding passing gas, it only breaks the fast if intentional or if swallowed deliberately.  Proper intention or Niyyah of fasting is a prerequisite though verbal expression is not compulsory. One can intend the night before or after Fajr light. Bathing is also optional if not possible before dawn, as health takes precedence over ritual acts. U...
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Shares at PSX Surge as Inflation Indicators Improve

In a positive turn of events, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) witnessed a significant surge as shares gained over 600 points, reflecting improving inflation indicators. This surge has instilled optimism in the market, with experts attributing the positive trend to various factors such as political stability, favorable inflation numbers, and the anticipation of a stronger economy ahead. The Bullish Trend: On Tuesday, the KSE-100 index experienced a remarkable gain of 680.68 points, or 1.05 percent, reaching 65,571.18 points at 12:55pm. The index closed at 65,502.59, marking a considerable increase of 612.09 points from the previous close. This surge in shares at the PSX has caught the attention of investors and market participants alike. Factors Driving the Market: Experts in the field suggest that the current market conditions indicate a consolidation phase within the range of 63,500 to 66,000. This outlook is supported by the resolution of political uncertainty and promising inflati...
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UAE's Efforts Towards Advancing Human Rights for All Globally

The United Arab Emirates has been at the forefront of championing human rights causes internationally. It is widely acknowledged for its humanitarian and development assistance to countries around the world, with a specific focus on empowering women and children.  Recent data shows the UAE extended critical aid to over 134 countries since 2015. This aid has helped improve access to healthcare, education, food and shelter for millions affected by poverty, conflicts and natural disasters. Just last year, the Emirates distributed over $1.1 billion worth of aid, largely through the Emirates Red Crescent association. A major aspect of the UAE's philosophy of humanitarian interventions is empowering vulnerable sections of society. It has implemented targeted programs to promote rights of women and children across geographies. Some notable initiatives include the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Girls Leadership Program, which economically supports female-headed households globally.  The ...
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Squid Game' Star O Yeong-su Convicted of Sexual Misconduct: A Shocking Revelation

  In a shocking turn of events, O Yeong-su, the acclaimed star of the popular series 'Squid Game,' has been convicted of sexual misconduct. The 79-year-old actor, who made history by becoming the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe award in 2022, has been sentenced to eight months in prison with a two-year suspension. This verdict has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and raised important discussions about accountability and the treatment of sexual assault cases. Let us delve deeper into the details surrounding this distressing incident. The Assault Case: The Seongnam Branch of the Suwon District Court recently announced that O Yeong-su has been found guilty of sexual misconduct. The charges stem from accusations made by a woman who alleged that the actor assaulted her in 2017. The court records reveal that the incidents occurred on a walking path and in front of the victim's residence while O Yeong-su was staying in rural areas for a theater per...
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Why is the Crypto Market Down Today? Understanding the Recent Downturn

In recent times, the cryptocurrency market has experienced a significant downturn, with the market cap dropping by over 6 percent in the past 24 hours. This sudden sell-off has raised concerns among investors and traders, prompting them to question the reasons behind this downward trend. In this article, we will explore the factors contributing to the current crypto market correction and shed light on the potential implications for investors. Healthy Market Correction: One of the primary reasons for the recent downturn in the crypto market is a healthy market correction. Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency, had been experiencing a bullish trend, fueled by increased demand and the approval of spot BTC ETFs in the United States. However, it was anticipated that a correction would occur before the halving rally kicks in. Analysts, such as Captain Faibik, predict that Bitcoin's price may drop towards $60,000 before rebounding to new all-time highs. This correction allows the market to ...
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Pakistan's Biggest IT Park to be Set up in Islamabad

In an exciting development for Pakistan's technology sector, plans are underway to establish the country's largest IT park in Islamabad. This initiative aims to boost the IT industry, promote innovation, and create a thriving ecosystem for tech companies. Let's delve into the details of this ambitious project and its potential impact on Pakistan's digital landscape. The Vision for the IT Park: According to the news article from Geo News, the government of Pakistan is spearheading the establishment of the IT park in Islamabad. The project's vision is to create a state-of-the-art facility that provides a conducive environment for tech startups, established IT companies, and research institutions. This initiative aims to attract local and foreign investment, drive job creation, and position Pakistan as a regional hub for technology and innovation. Benefits for the IT Industry: The IT park holds immense potential for the growth and advancement of Pakistan's technolo...
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UAE Boosts Ramadan Support to Palestinians in Gaza

In line with the directives of its leadership and the ongoing spirit of benevolence this Ramadan season brings, the United Arab Emirates has announced enhanced humanitarian aid for Palestinians residing in the Gaza Strip.  Following pre-existing initiatives dating back years that have provided over 21,000 tons of relief so far, the UAE is intensifying support for Palestinians during the Holy month through new medical and religious aid.  The directives aim to bolster healthcare services that see increased need in Ramadan as well as religious requirements. Special focus will be granted to vulnerable demographics like women, children and the elderly. The move builds upon the UAE's long-term dedication to supporting the Palestinian cause both politically and on-ground through aid. Massive logistical operations over past years under campaigns like 'Galant Knight 3' and 'Operation Birds of Goodness' have delivered vital cargo on an immense scale. As Gaza's humanitaria...
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Mohsin Naqvi: The Potential Interior Minister of Pakistan

In a recent development, it is speculated that Mohsin Naqvi, the current Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, may be appointed as the Interior Minister in the cabinet of newly-elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This decision comes as the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) have reportedly agreed to nominate Naqvi as a joint candidate from Punjab for the Senate elections. Let's delve into the details of this potential appointment and its implications. A Prominent Figure: Mohsin Naqvi has already held significant positions in the past, having previously served as the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab. With his extensive experience in both cricket administration and public service, Naqvi is regarded as a notable figure in Pakistani politics. The Senate Elections: Sources suggest that Naqvi will run as an independent candidate in the upcoming Senate elections, receiving support from the ruling alliance. This move indicates a strategic collab...
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Ready to Face Article 6,' Asserts Ex-President Arif Alvi

Former President Dr. Arif Alvi has expressed his readiness to face prosecution under Article 6 of the constitution, amidst allegations of breaching the constitutional mandate. Addressing the media at his residence in Karachi, Dr. Alvi emphasized his commitment to national unity and the importance of releasing the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as a significant step towards achieving this goal. He also reiterated his stance against corruption and expressed his willingness to face any allegations through the appropriate legal channels. Promoting National Unity: Dr. Arif Alvi has always been a strong advocate for national unity, firmly believing that Pakistan's progress depends on its unity. Throughout his political career, he has consistently endeavored to unite the country and bridge any divides. His commitment to fostering national unity has been a cornerstone of his political ideology. Stance Against Corruption: One of Dr. Alvi's fundamental principles in politics h...
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Former NTSB Investigator Introduces New Theory on Malaysia Airlines Flight Mystery

A former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator, Alan Diehl, has put forth a new theory regarding the Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 mystery. Diehl's theory challenges the prevailing search efforts that have focused on the southern part of the Indian Ocean, suggesting that the missing plane may have plummeted into the Andaman Sea northwest of Malaysia. Let's delve into the details of this intriguing theory. The Pilot's Intent: According to Diehl, the pilot of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, Zaharie Ahmad Shah, may have had a political motive for the disappearance of the aircraft. Diehl suggests that Shah commandeered the airplane, intending to make a political statement against the current regime. His plan allegedly involved flying the plane across Malaysia, broadcasting a manifesto, and eventually landing at the American military base in Diego Garcia. Change in Search Efforts: If Diehl's theory holds true, it would require a significant shift in the s...
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Sheikha Fatima's Website Launch: A Stepping Stone Towards Empowering Refugee Women

In a significant stride towards promoting gender equality and empowering marginalized communities, H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the esteemed Mother of the Nation, has recently launched a website to support the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women. This commendable initiative, established in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent and the UN High Commission for Refugees, reflects the United Arab Emirates' unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges faced by refugee women worldwide. The newly launched website stands as a virtual gateway to raise awareness about the fund's noble mission and vision. By providing information in both English and Arabic, it ensures accessibility to a wider audience, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to engage with the cause and contribute towards the betterment of refugee women's lives. The Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women, established in 2000, is a testament to Sheikha Fatima's profound belief in the power of emp...
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United States welcomes Modi's greetings to Shehbaz Sharif: A step towards regional peace

The Biden administration has welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message of congratulations to newly elected Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In his first public response on the development, State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller termed it a positive sign.  Speaking to ARY News, Miller said the US values its relationships with both India and Pakistan and wants to see them have a "productive and peaceful relationship". He highlighted America's hope that Modi's move could facilitate improved dialogue between the two South Asian neighbors. The spokesperson's remarks indicate Washington's desire to de-escalate tensions and foster cooperation in the region. As one of the largest economies and a strategic partner, India's willingness to engage with the new Pakistani government bodes well for regional stability. It presents an opening to address long-standing conflicts like Kashmir which have impeded progress. When asked if the US woul...
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The Significance of the Government's Voluntary Pension Scheme: Meeting IMF Conditions for Financial Stability

The government of Pakistan has announced its plans to introduce a voluntary pension scheme in order to fulfill another condition set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This new pension scheme is aimed at providing a steady income to government employees after retirement, unlike the existing Provident Fund or gratuity facilities offered in the private sector . According to sources within the government, the introduction of the voluntary pension scheme is part of an effort to alleviate the burden of huge government pensions and streamline the pension system . The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has developed a comprehensive strategy for new government recruits, ensuring that they will receive the voluntary pension instead of the traditional government pension scheme. The voluntary pension scheme is designed to offer a constant and steady income to government employees upon retirement. It also provides the benefit of maintaining pension benefits even in the ev...
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Strengthening Bonds of Brotherhood: Pakistan and UAE's Enduring Partnership

As the holy month of Ramadan graces us with its blessings, it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and appreciation for the unbreakable bond between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Over the years, the UAE has stood as a steadfast ally, extending unwavering support to Pakistan in various domains. From economic cooperation to humanitarian assistance, the UAE's commitment to the well-being and progress of Pakistan has been exemplary. This article delves into the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and the UAE, highlighting the numerous ways in which their partnership has flourished. Building Strong Foundations: The foundation of the Pakistan-UAE relationship is built on mutual respect, shared values, and common goals. The UAE has been instrumental in supporting Pakistan's development, with significant contributions in infrastructure projects, particularly in the construction of schools and hospitals. These initiatives have positively impacted the lives of countles...
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Shehbaz Sharif sworn in as Prime Minister of Pakistan

Shehbaz Sharif took oath as the Prime Minister of Pakistan today (April 11) in the presence of the President of Pakistan and dozens of members of the National Assembly.  During the oath taking ceremony, Shehbaz Sharif promised to run the government based on the principles of transparency, justice and rule of law enshrined in the constitution of Pakistan. He said that he will adhere to all the principles and laws of the United Nations. Shehbaz Sharif has become the Prime Minister after the vote of no confidence against the government of former Prime Minister Imran Khan held in the National Assembly in Islamabad. His appointment was seen as necessary to deal with the political instability and economic crisis facing Pakistan amid a mixed situation. Shehbaz Sharif heads the Pakistan Muslim League-N party. He is the brother of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan hopes that Shehbaz Sharif will help restore political stability as well as economic stability in the country. After t...
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