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Pakistan Earns Spot on OPCW Executive Council Once Again

Pakistan has successfully been re-elected to the Executive Council of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) for the 2026–2028 term. This achievement came during the 30th Session of the OPCW Conference, making it a proud moment for the country on the international stage.

The OPCW Executive Council is responsible for ensuring the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention, a critical global treaty aimed at eliminating chemical weapons. Pakistan’s re-election demonstrates the international community’s confidence in the country’s commitment to global peace and chemical weapons non-proliferation.

Proud Moment for Pakistan

Pakistan’s consistent presence on the council highlights its active and constructive role in global disarmament. Let’s be honest, in a world where some countries can’t even agree on dinner plans, getting re-elected to an international council is a pretty big deal! Hats off to the diplomats who made this possible—clearly, they know how to handle some serious pressure.

Pakistan’s re-election will allow it to continue influencing key decisions regarding chemical weapons policies worldwide. Here’s hoping Pakistan keeps up the momentum and brings home more international wins!

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Statins have long been hailed as life-saving drugs for their role in lowering cholesterol and preventing heart attacks and strokes. But if you’ve ever chatted with someone on statins, you’ve likely heard complaints about muscle pain. Now, University of British Columbia (UBC) researchers have uncovered the science behind this uncomfortable side effect.

Why Do Statins Cause Muscle Pain?

UBC’s latest research reveals how statins can trigger muscle damage. For years, doctors prescribed these medications to millions with little understanding of why some patients suffered muscle aches, weakness, and cramping. The UBC scientists dug deep and found that statins disrupt key cellular processes in muscle tissue, leading to pain and, in rare cases, serious muscle injury.

This breakthrough could help doctors identify who might be at risk and develop better strategies to prevent or treat these side effects. So, if you’re one of the many people who groan every time you climb the stairs, science is finally on your side! Maybe in the future, you can have your (cholesterol-lowering) cake and eat it too—without the muscle pain.

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Mo‘orea’s Land-Sea Link: Science Uncovers Surprising Connections

A groundbreaking, multi-year scientific expedition has revealed fascinating new insights into how land use on tropical islands like Mo‘orea impacts coastal water quality. Researchers trekked across the island, collecting data that shows what happens on land doesn’t stay on land—it flows straight into the lagoons.

The study highlights the powerful role rainfall plays as a bridge between the land and lagoon waters. When it rains, water carries soil, nutrients, and pollutants from farms, homes, and forests right into the lagoons. This affects everything from water clarity to coral health and the entire ecosystem. It’s like Mo‘orea’s lagoons have an open-door policy—whatever washes off the island ends up at the party!

Why This Matters for Island Communities

The findings mean that how we treat the land—whether we keep forests intact, develop new areas, or manage agriculture—has a direct impact on the coastal environment and the people who depend on it. Maybe next time we’re tempted to pave paradise, we’ll think twice about what flows downstream.

This research inspires us to protect both land and sea for a sustainable future. The next time it rains, remember: every drop carries a story from ridge to reef.

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https://ecomagazine.com/news/coastal/island-wide-field-surveys-illuminate-land-sea-connections-in-moorea/

Indonesia Faces Devastating Floods: Eight Lives Lost

Indonesia is battling severe floods after relentless heavy rain swept across parts of the country. Tragically, eight people have lost their lives, and thousands have been forced to leave their homes. The disaster has brought widespread disruption, with many communities struggling to cope as the rain shows no sign of stopping.

Thousands Displaced, Communities in Crisis

Thousands of Indonesians now face uncertain futures, seeking shelter and safety as floodwaters rise. Emergency workers and local authorities are racing against time to provide relief and rescue those stranded by the floods. The ongoing rain only adds to the challenge, making recovery efforts even tougher. These floods serve as a harsh reminder of nature’s unpredictable fury. Maybe it’s time we all invest in better raincoats—or perhaps a sturdy inflatable raft! On a serious note, our thoughts go out to the families affected and the brave responders on the ground.

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Get Ready for the 2026 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature!

The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is all set to return in 2026, marking its 18th edition with a spectacular lineup of literary legends and cultural icons. Scheduled to kick off on January 21, this annual event promises to bring together book lovers, writers, and thinkers from around the globe for a celebration of imagination and ideas.

The festival will feature acclaimed authors and renowned cultural personalities, offering fans a chance to meet their literary heroes and discover new voices. Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, book signings, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to ignite creativity and foster a love for reading.

An Unmissable Cultural Experience

The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature has earned a reputation as the Middle East’s premier literary event. From thought-provoking debates to inspiring storytelling sessions, the festival’s program appeals to all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a die-hard bookworm or just looking for a dose of cultural enrichment, this event belongs on your calendar.

Honestly, if you’ve ever wanted to rub elbows with your favorite writers (without being escorted out by security), this is your chance! The only thing missing is a bookmark that doubles as a backstage pass.

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Official Announcement