Category Archives: policy

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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**UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?**

*By Snehil Singh | September 23, 2025, 2:29 PM*

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The debates will open on Tuesday, continue through Saturday, and conclude on Monday, September 29.

### Traditional Opening Speakers

In keeping with tradition since 1955, Brazil will speak first, followed by the United States as the host country. This long-standing custom began when Brazil offered to speak first at the 10th General Assembly.

### Key Discussion Points

The assembly is expected to focus heavily on pressing global tensions, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump will address the UNGA on the opening day, Tuesday, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is also scheduled to speak later in the week.

### Representation of Major Powers

Several major powers are sending senior delegations to the assembly. Russian President Vladimir Putin will miss the gathering for the second consecutive year, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov leading Moscow’s delegation.

China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang instead of President Xi Jinping. Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent India at the session.

### Bilateral Talks and Diplomatic Engagements

On Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s S. Jaishankar to discuss strengthening strategic cooperation across trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

In addition, the External Affairs Minister engaged with EU foreign ministers at an informal meeting in New York. Discussions covered multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the situation in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as energy and trade issues.

### Notable New Attendees

This year’s assembly features significant participation from countries that have rarely or never before addressed the UNGA in recent decades.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will speak, marking the first time a Syrian head of state has addressed the assembly since 1967.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will also attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency amid UN Security Council sanctions.

Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, will be present as well.

### Theme of the 80th Session

The theme for this year’s assembly is **“Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”**

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and the current president of the 80th session, has framed the gathering as a critical moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving the achievements of the UN since 1945, while adapting the institution to address future challenges, summing it up with the rallying cry: **“Better Together!”**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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**UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?**

*By Snehil Singh | September 23, 2025, 2:29 PM*

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The debates officially open on Tuesday and will continue through Saturday, concluding on Monday, September 29.

### Tradition and Opening Speeches

As per tradition, Brazil will deliver the first speech, followed by the United States, the host country. This custom dates back to 1955, when Brazil offered to speak first during the 10th General Assembly, a practice that has continued ever since.

### Key Discussion Points: Focus on Global Tensions

A primary focus of this year’s assembly will be global tensions, especially the ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Hamas in Gaza as well as Russia’s war in Ukraine.

On the opening day, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the assembly. Later in the week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also deliver a speech.

### Representation from Major Powers

Several major powers are sending prominent delegations, though with some notable absences:

– Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend for the second consecutive year; Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will lead the delegation.
– China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang instead of President Xi Jinping.
– Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delegated External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent India.

### Bilateral Talks and Strategic Cooperation

Ahead of the assembly, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations. Their discussions covered trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

In addition, Jaishankar participated in an informal meeting with EU foreign ministers in New York. The discussions included multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the Ukraine conflict, the Gaza situation, energy, and trade.

### Notable New Attendees

This year marks several significant firsts and returns:

– Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will address the assembly, the first time a Syrian head of state has done so since 1967.
– Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency amid UN Security Council sanctions.
– Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will also be present.

### Theme of the 80th Session

The theme for this year’s UNGA is **“Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”**

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and current president of the 80th session, described the gathering as a crucial moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving the UN’s achievements since 1945 while adapting to future challenges, closing with the rallying cry: *“Better Together!”*

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Stay tuned for updates as the session unfolds and world leaders debate the pressing issues shaping global peace and development.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

UN General Assembly: Who is attending, and what’s on agenda?

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UN General Assembly: Who is Attending, and What’s on the Agenda?

By Snehil Singh | Sep 23, 2025 | 2:29 PM

World leaders have gathered in New York for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. The debate of the 80th session will open on Tuesday, continue through Saturday, and conclude on Monday, September 29.

Traditionally, Brazil will speak first, followed by the United States as the host country. This custom has been maintained since 1955, when Brazil offered to speak first at the 10th General Assembly.

Discussion Points: Assembly to Focus on Global Tensions

The assembly is expected to focus on several pressing global issues, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. US President Donald Trump is scheduled to address the UNGA on the first day, Tuesday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will also speak later in the week.

Representation: Major Powers Sending Trusted Delegations

Several major powers are sending senior representatives to the assembly, although some top leaders will be absent. Russian President Vladimir Putin will miss the gathering for another consecutive year, with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov leading Moscow’s delegation.

China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang rather than President Xi Jinping. Similarly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to represent the country.

Bilateral Talks: Strengthening Strategic Cooperation

On Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with India’s External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to discuss enhancing strategic cooperation between their countries across multiple sectors including trade, defense, energy, and critical minerals.

Additionally, Jaishankar met with EU foreign ministers at an informal meeting in New York. The discussions included topics such as multilateralism, the India-EU partnership, the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as energy and trade.

New Attendees: Syria, Iran, and Qatar’s Significant Presence

Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa will address the assembly, marking the first time a Syrian head of state has done so since 1967.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will also attend following Tehran’s announcement to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency over UN Security Council sanctions.

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will be present as well, highlighting the diverse participation at this year’s session.

Theme Revealed: “Better Together”

The theme for this year’s assembly is “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.”

Annalena Baerbock, Germany’s former foreign minister and current president of the 80th session, framed the gathering as a critical moment for international cooperation. She emphasized the importance of preserving what the UN has achieved since 1945 and adapting it for future challenges with the rallying call: “Better Together!”

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/un-general-assembly-who-is-attending-what-s-on-agenda/story

This week’s round up of telecommunication-related funding calls

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During her annual State of the European Union address on September 10, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the Commission will present a Single Market roadmap extending to 2028. This roadmap aims to tackle long-standing barriers in various fields, including telecommunications.

Telecommunications is a strategic sector for Europe’s digital sovereignty, economic competitiveness, and societal resilience. Recognizing this, the EU has already allocated considerable resources to advance research and innovation in this area.

The European Union funds projects related to 5G and 6G networks, AI-driven networks, and quantum communications through programs such as Horizon Europe, Digital Europe, and Eureka clusters.

Here is a list of some current grant opportunities in these fields.
https://sciencebusiness.net/news/r-d-funding/weeks-round-telecommunication-related-funding-calls

Nissan Unveils AI-Powered Prototype Car

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Long-term interest rates in Japan, which influence fixed mortgage rates, rose to their highest level in 17 years. On September 22nd, the yield on 10-year government bonds briefly reached 1.665 percent, marking the highest point since 2008.

In an innovative approach to electricity demand control, frozen tuna stored at minus 60 degrees Celsius are now being utilized as a cooling agent. By temporarily shutting down refrigeration units and relying on the fish itself to maintain storage temperatures, companies are beginning to reduce power consumption effectively.

The Consumer Affairs Agency has announced suspicions of stealth marketing practices involving Ajinomoto and Inglewood concerning their frozen home-delivery meal brand, “Aete.” It is alleged that the companies asked individuals to post about the products on social media in exchange for free items, later republishing those posts on their sales sites.

Seven-Eleven Japan has completed a large-scale overhaul of the store system used by approximately 21,000 outlets nationwide. This milestone, achieved five years after the project was conceived, represents a major step in digital transformation. The new cloud-based system replaces the company’s traditional infrastructure and is designed to enhance efficiency and customer service.

On September 19th, the Bank of Japan decided to maintain its policy interest rate at 0.5 percent, marking the fifth consecutive meeting without a rate change. Backed by a majority of the Policy Board, the decision reflects the central bank’s cautious approach as it continues to monitor the impact of U.S. tariffs, commonly known as the Trump tariffs.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146970.php

India`s GST reforms ignite clash between PM Modi and Congress

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Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari on Monday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the latter’s speech on Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms implementation, suggesting that the PM should have issued an apology to the nation.

Accusing the Narendra Modi government at the centre of “looting” poor and middle-class citizens, Tiwari said that Congress and the opposition had been demanding only a single slab for GST, based on the idea of ‘One Nation, One Tax’.

“The question that needs to be asked is who increased the GST? Who put a burden on the country by increasing it for eight years? You (PM Modi) should have apologised to the nation yesterday. Congress and the Opposition had been demanding only one slab on the basis of ‘one nation, one tax’. However, you looted the poor and middle-class citizens,” Tiwari told ANI.

The Congress MP further attacked PM Modi for asking people to celebrate the GST rate rationalisation as a “festival”, saying that he was the one who imposed GST at midnight.

“Yesterday, the Prime Minister said that this is a festival. He said that we should celebrate because GST has been reduced. You imposed GST at 12:00 in the night in Parliament. You also talked similarly then. The people of this country have paid over Rs 50 lakh crore in GST. The MSMEs have almost shut down,” Tiwari said.

“Now, you (PM Modi) have the courage to ask people to celebrate the ‘Utsav’. Only you could have shown this courage. Your face was telling that your words lacked self-confidence and courage,” he added.

Meanwhile, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday said that GST reforms have brought a wave of happiness and celebration among people and can boost the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country by 0.8 per cent. The new GST reforms have come into force from today.

The minister said that the country’s path towards a Viksit Bharat goes through self-reliance.

“Apart from Navratri, the budget utsav has begun. There is a wave of happiness and celebration among people wherever you see. GST rates have been reduced, which will benefit all sections of society. But we are celebrating something else. These reforms can boost the GDP by 0.8%. Our path towards a Viksit Bharat goes through self-reliance. It has been welcomed by all sections of the society,” Puri told ANI.

He said all sections, particularly the lower middle class and economically weaker sections, will benefit because GST rates on various consumption items have been reduced.

He remarked that from the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking a significant step forward in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

The Prime Minister said that implementation of Next Generation GST reforms marks the beginning of a GST Bachat Utsav (Savings Festival) across India. He emphasised that this festival will enhance savings and make it easier for people to purchase their preferred items.

PM Modi noted that the benefits of this savings festival will reach the poor, middle class, neo middle class, youth, farmers, women, shopkeepers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike.

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*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/indias-gst-sparks-political-row-as-congress-pramod-tiwari-says-pm-modi-should-have-apologised-23595243

Congress questions on whether GST reduction benefits will be passed to consumers

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He also claimed that “procedural complexities” have not been eased in the reforms despite the fact that it was much needed. Ramesh pointed out that at the very launch of GST in 2017, Rahul Gandhi and the Congress had highlighted the problems and asserted that what was introduced was the “Gabbar Singh Tax.”

The Modi government mocked him and the Congress, ignored the concerns, and brought about no changes. Now, following US President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs, they have been forced to improve the tax structure and are celebrating it like a festival. “This government makes an event of everything as their focus is on diverting attention from real issues,” he told PTI.

Taking a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ramesh said that when Modi was the chief minister of Gujarat, he opposed the GST proposal of the then UPA for eight years from 2006 to 2014. “We have been demanding reform of the GST regime since 2017, but the reform that has been carried out eight years too late is limited. The procedural complexities have not been eased, which was much needed. There is also a big question mark on whether the benefits of tax reduction will be passed on to the consumers or not,” Ramesh said.

He asserted that this reform is not the “GST 2.0” that the Congress has been demanding, but at best can be termed “GST 1.5.” The Congress on Sunday accused Modi of taking “sole ownership” of the amendments made to the GST regime and said the current reforms were inadequate, with outstanding issues— including states’ demand for an extension of compensation for another five years—remaining unaddressed.

The opposition party slammed the reforms as “applying a band-aid after inflicting deep wounds” and said the government should apologise to the public for its GST on essential items.

In his address to the nation on Sunday, Modi said a “GST bachat utsav (savings festival)” will begin from the first day of Navratri, and, coupled with the income tax exemption, it will be a “double bonanza” for most people.

Responding to the address, Ramesh said Modi addressed the nation to “claim sole ownership of the amendments made to the GST regime by the GST Council, a constitutional body.”

The Indian National Congress has long argued that the Goods and Services Tax has been a “growth-suppressing tax,” Ramesh said on Sunday.

“It is plagued with a high number of tax brackets, punitive tax rates for items of mass consumption, large-scale evasion and misclassification, costly compliance burdens, and an inverted duty structure (lower tax on output as compared to inputs),” Ramesh stated in a post on X.

“We have been demanding a GST 2.0 since July 2017 itself. This was a key pledge made in our Nyay Patra for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections,” he added.

Ramesh said the current GST reforms were inadequate, with outstanding issues including widespread concerns of MSMEs, who are major employment generators in the economy. “Apart from major procedural changes, this involves further increasing the thresholds that apply to interstate supplies,” he explained.

He also claimed that there are sectoral issues—for instance, in textiles, tourism, exporters, handicrafts, and agricultural inputs—that must be tackled. States should be incentivised to move towards the introduction of state-level GST to cover electricity, alcohol, petroleum, and real estate as well, the Congress leader said.

“The key demand of the states made in the true spirit of cooperative federalism, namely, the extension of compensation for another five years to fully protect their revenues, remains unaddressed,” Ramesh added.

From kitchen staples to electronics, from medicines and equipment to automobiles, goods and services became cheaper from Monday as the reduced GST rates on several items came into effect from September 22—the first day of Navratri.

The tax regime now assumes a two-tier structure, with the majority of goods and services attracting tax of 5 and 18 per cent, and ultra-luxury items being levied a 40 per cent tax. Tobacco and related products will continue to be in the 28 per cent plus cess category.

Previously, GST was levied in four slabs of 5, 12, 18, and 28 per cent. Besides, a compensation cess is levied on luxury items and demerit or sin goods.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed/agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/congress-questions-on-whether-gst-reduction-benefits-will-be-passed-on-to-consumers-23595236

‘GST Bachat Utsav’ from tomorrow: PM Modi announces price cuts

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**‘GST Bachat Utsav’ from Tomorrow: PM Modi Announces Price Cuts**

*By Snehil Singh | September 21, 2025, 5:20 PM*

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the launch of a “GST Bachat Utsav” starting September 22, describing it as a next-generation reform aimed at transforming the economy. The new Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates, effective from Monday, are designed to reduce the cost of daily essentials and stimulate consumption-driven growth across India.

“This reform is not only about reducing prices but about creating new opportunities,” PM Modi said during his nationwide address on Sunday.

**Economic Impact: GST Reforms to Benefit 99% of Goods**

According to the Prime Minister, the recent GST reforms will benefit 99% of goods, which will now fall under the 5% tax slab. Simplifying the tax structure to mainly two slabs—5% and 18%—will help make common goods more affordable for everyday consumers.

PM Modi emphasized that these changes will not only lower prices but also unlock new avenues for economic growth across multiple sectors, including industry, agriculture, and services.

**Public Focus: Double Bonanza for Poor and Neo-Middle Class**

Highlighting the social impact, the Prime Minister noted that the GST reforms prioritize public welfare, offering a “double bonanza” to the poor and the neo-middle class.

“When the purchasing power of people rises, it benefits every sector—from industry to agriculture to services. This is a reform that will touch every household,” he said.

**Political Response**

Earlier, the Congress party questioned whether PM Modi would address concerns related to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks on India-Pakistan relations and issues concerning H-1B visa holders. However, PM Modi’s address primarily focused on outlining the benefits of the GST cuts and the government’s broader economic roadmap.

The GST rate reductions were initially announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman earlier this month, marking the most significant indirect tax reform since July 2017.

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With these reforms, the government aims to boost consumption, make essential goods more affordable, and spur inclusive economic growth across the country. The “GST Bachat Utsav” celebrations starting tomorrow are expected to bring immediate relief to consumers while supporting India’s growth trajectory in the coming years.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/pm-modi-announces-gst-bachat-utsav-from-tomorrow/story

GST effect! TV prices drop up to ₹85,000

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**GST Effect! TV Prices Drop by Up to ₹85,000**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 12:22 PM*

In a major development for consumers, television manufacturers have announced price cuts ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹85,000 across various models. This significant reduction comes in response to the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) cut on TVs, effective from September 22, 2025.

### GST Rate Reduction on TVs

The GST Council recently slashed the tax rate on television sets with screen sizes over 32 inches from 28% to 18%. This move is part of the government’s broader initiative to boost consumption by making electronic goods more affordable.

### How Manufacturers Are Responding

Leading TV brands are promptly passing these savings on to customers by lowering the Maximum Retail Prices (MRP) of their products. Sony, LG, and Panasonic have all announced updated price lists reflecting these GST benefits.

– **LG Electronics India** has reduced prices by ₹2,500 to ₹85,800 on a range of models from 43 inches to 100 inches.

– **Panasonic** has cut prices between ₹3,000 and ₹32,000, with 43-inch TVs now cheaper by ₹3,000 to ₹4,700. Additionally, 55-inch Panasonic models have received price cuts of up to ₹7,000, priced between ₹65,990 and ₹76,990. Their premium 75-inch model now costs ₹3.68 lakh, down from ₹4 lakh.

### What This Means for Consumers

The reduction in GST and corresponding price cuts from manufacturers make now a great time to upgrade your television. With savings as high as ₹85,000 on select models, buyers can expect more affordable rates on a wide variety of TVs.

Stay tuned for more updates on price changes and new product launches from major electronics brands.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/tv-manufacturers-slash-prices-on-lower-gst/story

How Trump’s H-1B fee hike could affect US healthcare system

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**How Trump’s H-1B Fee Hike Could Affect the US Healthcare System**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 05:03 PM*

The Trump administration has announced a staggering increase in the annual fee for H-1B visas, raising it by $100,000. This move is poised to have severe implications for the US healthcare system, where over 30% of medical residents are international graduates.

Currently, approximately 10,000 out of 43,000 residency spots are occupied by H-1B visa holders. With the visa fee surge—from less than $5,000 to an eye-watering $100,000—many hospitals may find it economically unfeasible to sponsor these visas for medical residents, who earn an average annual salary of around $55,000. This could exacerbate existing staffing shortages and ultimately compromise patient care. As Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick noted, “No longer will you put trainees on an H-1B visa—it’s just not economic anymore.”

### Visa Costs Surge, Risking Patient Care

The dramatic hike in fees significantly raises costs for employers. It is expected to make the H-1B program viable only for high-value roles, rather than entry-level or trainee positions. Officials have yet to clarify whether the $100,000 fee will be charged upfront or annually. Meanwhile, visa quotas remain unchanged at 65,000 for regular applicants and 20,000 for advanced degree holders. However, the soaring costs are anticipated to cause a sharp decline in applications.

### Impact on Businesses and IT Firms

India remains the largest beneficiary of H-1B visas, accounting for 71% of approvals last year. The fee increase will likely impact IT companies such as Infosys, TCS, and Wipro, which frequently send junior and mid-level engineers to the US for projects.

According to recent data, Amazon leads with 10,044 H-1B visa holders, followed by TCS (5,505), Microsoft (5,189), Meta (5,123), Apple (4,202), Google (4,181), Deloitte (2,353), Infosys (2,004), Wipro (1,523), and Tech Mahindra Americas (951).

### Opposition and Criticism

The policy has drawn sharp criticism from US lawmakers and immigration advocates. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi described the fee hike as “reckless,” warning that it risks cutting the US off from high-skilled talent essential for innovation and job creation.

Ajay Bhutoria, a former advisor to President Joe Biden, added that the increase could “crush small businesses and start-ups reliant on diverse talent.” He also cautioned that it might drive skilled workers to Canada or Europe, thereby weakening America’s competitive edge globally.

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The Trump administration’s hefty H-1B fee increase could thus have far-reaching consequences—not only for the US healthcare system struggling with staff shortages but also for the broader economy and the country’s position as a hub for global talent.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/us-healthcare-braces-for-impact-as-trump-hikes-h-1b-fee/story