MINNEAPOLIS — A pair of ruby slippers that were worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz” and stolen from a museum nearly two decades ago fetched $28 million in an auction Saturday. Ruby slippers once worn by Judy Garland in the "The Wizard of Oz," are displayed at a news conference Sept. 4, 2018, at the FBI office in Brooklyn Center, Minn. Heritage Auctions estimated the slippers would sell for $3 million or more. Online bidding opened last month and by Friday had reached $1.55 million, or $1.91 million including the buyer's premium, a commission that the buyer pays, said Robert Wilonsky, a vice president with the Dallas-based auction house. Over 800 people were tracking the slippers, and the company's web page for the auction had hit nearly 43,000 page views by Thursday, he said. As Rhys Thomas, author of the book, “The Ruby Slippers of Oz,” puts it, the sequined shoes from the beloved 1939 musical have seen “more twists and turns than the Yellow Brick Road.” They were on display at the Judy Garland Museum in her hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in 2005 when Terry Jon Martin used a hammer to smash the glass of the museum’s door and display case. People are also reading... 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Martin, now 77, who lives near Grand Rapids in northern Minnesota, wasn't publicly exposed as the thief until he was indicted in May 2023. He pleaded guilty in October 2023. He was in a wheelchair and on supplementary oxygen when he was sentenced last January to time served because of his poor health. His attorney, Dane DeKrey, explained ahead of sentencing that Martin, who had a long history of burglary and receiving stolen property, was attempting to pull off “one last score” after an old associate with connections to the mob told him the shoes had to be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value. But a fence — a person who buys stolen goods — later told him the rubies were just glass, DeKrey said. So Martin got rid of the slippers. The attorney didn't specify how. The alleged fence, Jerry Hal Saliterman, 77, of the Minneapolis suburb of Crystal, was indicted in March. He was also in a wheelchair and on oxygen when he made his first court appearance. He's scheduled to go on trial in January and hasn't entered a plea, though his attorney has said he's not guilty. The shoes were returned in February to memorabilia collector Michael Shaw, who had loaned them to the museum. They were one of several pairs that Garland wore during the filming, but only four pairs are known to have survived. In the movie, to return from Oz to Kansas, Dorothy had to click her heels three times and repeat, “There’s no place like home.” “The Wizard of Oz” story has gained new attention in recent weeks with the release of the movie “Wicked,” an adaptation of the megahit Broadway musical, a prequel of sorts that reimagines the character of the Wicked Witch of the West. The auction also included other memorabilia from “The Wizard of Oz,” including a hat worn by Margaret Hamilton, who played the original Wicked Witch of the West. Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!Key Trends in the Dermatology Drug Market with Insights from Pfizer, Bayer, Johnson & Johnson, Merz Pharma, AbbVie, Valeant, Novartis, LEO Pharma 12-15-2024 03:02 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: STATS N DATA Dermatology Drug Market Market Overview and Recent Developments The Dermatology Drug Market has emerged as a vital segment within the pharmaceutical industry, playing a crucial role in addressing various skin conditions that affect millions globally. This market encompasses a diverse range of therapeutic solutions aimed at treating ailments such as psoriasis, acne, dermatitis, and skin infections, making it essential for public health and personal well-being. With the increasing prevalence of skin disorders and a growing awareness of dermatological health, this market is gaining significant traction. Recent developments within this sector reflect a robust growth trajectory driven by several factors. Technological advancements have paved the way for innovative drug formulations and delivery systems, enhancing the efficacy and accessibility of treatments. Furthermore, strategic collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are fostering an environment ripe for breakthroughs in dermatological therapies. These collaborations are often aimed at leveraging cutting-edge research to develop targeted treatments that cater to specific skin conditions. As the Dermatology Drug Market evolves, actionable insights reveal the importance of staying attuned to current trends and market dynamics. Companies are increasingly focusing on personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to the individual needs of patients, enhancing overall effectiveness. The rise of teledermatology and digital health solutions is also transforming how patients access care, making it imperative for stakeholders to adapt to these changes. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=26242 Key Growth Drivers and Trends Several critical factors are shaping the demand within the Dermatology Drug Market. Sustainability has become a priority for many companies, as consumers increasingly prefer products that are environmentally friendly and ethically produced. This shift is prompting manufacturers to consider green chemistry and sustainable sourcing in their development processes. Additionally, digitization is transforming the landscape of dermatological care. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into drug development and patient management is streamlining operations and improving outcomes. AI technologies are being used to analyze vast amounts of dermatological data, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. Moreover, the trend towards product customization is gaining momentum, with patients seeking solutions that cater specifically to their unique skin concerns. Emerging technologies, such as telemedicine and IoT-driven health monitoring systems, are also influencing the market's future. These innovations facilitate remote consultations and continuous monitoring of skin conditions, enhancing patient engagement and adherence to treatment regimens. Market Segmentation The Dermatology Drug Market can be segmented as follows: Segment by Type - External Use: This includes topical treatments such as creams, ointments, and gels designed for direct application to the skin. - Oral: These are systemic medications taken by mouth to treat various dermatological conditions. - Injection: Injectable therapies, including biologics and corticosteroids, are used for more severe skin disorders requiring rapid intervention. Segment by Application - Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red, flaky patches of skin. - Skin Infections: Treatments aimed at addressing bacterial, fungal, and viral infections affecting the skin. - Acne: Medications targeting acne vulgaris and related skin issues. - Dermatitis: Various forms of dermatitis, including atopic and contact dermatitis, require specific therapeutic approaches. - Others: This includes treatments for conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and skin cancers. Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=26242 Competitive Landscape The Dermatology Drug Market is characterized by a competitive landscape featuring several prominent players, each contributing to the industry's dynamics through innovation and strategic initiatives: - Pfizer: Known for its extensive portfolio, Pfizer has made significant strides in developing biologics for psoriasis and other skin conditions. Their research focuses on enhancing patient outcomes through targeted therapies. - Bayer: Bayer is actively involved in the dermatology space, particularly in developing innovative treatments for skin infections and acne, emphasizing sustainable and effective solutions. - Johnson & Johnson: This company has a strong presence in the dermatology market, leveraging its research capabilities to introduce novel therapies that address various skin disorders while ensuring patient safety. - Merz Pharma: Merz specializes in aesthetic dermatology and has made significant advances in injectable treatments, particularly for aging skin and other dermatological concerns. - AbbVie: A leader in immunology, AbbVie has developed several cutting-edge therapies for psoriasis, showcasing a commitment to addressing complex dermatological conditions. - Valeant: Valeant Pharmaceuticals has focused on expanding its dermatology product line, with an emphasis on innovative treatments for acne and skin infections. - Novartis: With a strong pipeline of dermatological products, Novartis is committed to research and development, aiming to bring forth new therapies that meet unmet medical needs. - LEO Pharma: This company has a dedicated focus on dermatology, with a range of products targeting psoriasis and eczema, and is known for its patient-centric approach. - Galderma: A prominent player in the dermatology market, Galderma is recognized for its innovative solutions in aesthetic and medical dermatology, catering to a variety of skin conditions. - Bristol-Myers Squibb: Focused on immunology and dermatology, Bristol-Myers Squibb is advancing treatments for serious skin conditions, leveraging their expertise in biologics. - GlaxoSmithKline: GSK is committed to dermatological health through its extensive research and development initiatives, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients with skin disorders. Opportunities and Challenges The Dermatology Drug Market presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. Untapped regions, particularly in developing economies, offer a wealth of potential as awareness of dermatological health increases. Additionally, evolving consumer preferences towards natural and effective products create avenues for companies to diversify their offerings and cater to specific market needs. However, challenges persist in this dynamic landscape. Regulatory constraints can hinder the speed of bringing new products to market, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of compliance requirements. Operational inefficiencies can also pose obstacles, emphasizing the need for streamlined processes and robust supply chain management. Moreover, talent shortages in specialized fields such as dermatological research and development can slow innovation. Companies must invest in training and development to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of this evolving market. Technological Advancements Technological advancements are significantly impacting the Dermatology Drug Market, with innovations such as AI, virtual tools, and IoT systems revolutionizing patient care and drug development processes. AI is being utilized to analyze patient data, enabling healthcare providers to deliver personalized treatment plans based on individual skin profiles. This approach not only enhances treatment efficacy but also improves patient satisfaction. Virtual tools, including teledermatology platforms, are allowing patients to consult with dermatologists remotely, improving access to care and facilitating timely interventions. This shift is particularly beneficial for individuals in remote areas who may have limited access to specialized dermatological services. IoT-driven systems are also making waves in dermatology, with wearable devices enabling continuous monitoring of skin conditions. These technologies provide valuable data that can inform treatment adjustments and enhance patient engagement in their own healthcare journey. Research Methodology and Insights STATS N DATA employs a comprehensive research approach to deliver accurate insights into the Dermatology Drug Market. Utilizing both top-down and bottom-up methodologies, the research team gathers data from a variety of sources, including industry reports, market analyses, and expert interviews. This multifaceted approach ensures a thorough understanding of market dynamics. Primary and secondary research are integral to the methodology, allowing for triangulation of data to validate findings. By synthesizing insights from multiple sources, STATS N DATA provides a nuanced perspective on market trends, growth drivers, and competitive landscapes, establishing itself as a trusted authority in dermatological market research. In conclusion, the Dermatology Drug Market is poised for continued growth, driven by innovation, technological advancements, and a focus on patient-centric solutions. As the market evolves, stakeholders must remain agile, adapting to emerging trends and addressing the challenges ahead. With the right strategies and insights, companies can thrive in this dynamic and ever-changing landscape. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=26242 Access the full report analysis here: https://www.statsndata.org/report/dermatology-drug-market-26242 Related Reports: Noninvasive Prenatal Testing Service Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/noninvasive-prenatal-testing-service-market-66123 AI-powered Paraphrasing Tool Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/ai-powered-paraphrasing-tool-market-62082 Smartphone Insurance Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/smartphone-insurance-market-39252 Music Game Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/music-game-market-52896 Internet of Things (IoT) Integration Market https://www.statsndata.org/report/internet-of-things-iot-integration-market-52612 John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.The most-anticipated video game release in years headlines the 2025 outlook for the sector. Excitement for "Grand Theft Auto 6" from ( ) has driven TTWO stock higher recently. "Take-Two's 'GTA 6' is poised for a blockbuster second-half 2025 release, with 45 million units expected (to be sold) in the launch window," BMO Capital Markets analyst Brian Pitz said in a client note Tuesday. "GTA 6" could become the highest-grossing video game of all time, Pitz said. The game is due out next fall, he said. The video game industry overall is likely to grow at a compound annual rate of just 4.4% for the next three years, Pitz said. But largest publishers, including ( ), ( ), Take-Two and Ubisoft, are positioned to gain market share, he said. Pitz rates TTWO stock as a "top pick" in the video game space heading into 2025. He has a price target of 240 on Take-Two stock. In afternoon trades on the , TTWO stock dipped a fraction to 186.71. On Nov. 7, TTWO stock broke out of a 39-week at a of 171.59, according to charts. Take-Two rallied after its better-than-expected . TTWO Stock Counting On Hit Game "GTA 6" needs to be a hit for Take-Two, given how expensive it was to produce, Benchmark analyst Mike Hickey said in a client note. "'GTA 6' is rumored to be the most expensive video game ever developed, with alleged development costs ranging from $1 billion to $2 billion," Hickey said. "This figure would surpass the budgets of other major titles like 'Destiny' ($500 million), 'Cyberpunk 2077' ($330 million), and 'Modern Warfare 2' ($310 million). By comparison, 'GTA 5' cost $250 million but generated over $1 billion in revenue within three days of launch." He added, "If accurate, 'GTA 6''s budget reflects its potential as the most ambitious game ever, fueled by over a decade of development and massive anticipation following a 2023 teaser trailer." Hickey rates TTWO stock as buy with a price target of 210. Other major titles coming next year from Take-Two include "Borderlands 4," "Mafia: The Old Country" and "Sid Meier's Civilization 7." New Console Coming From Nintendo Another major event for the video game sector is the predicted launch of 's ( ) next game console, the Nintendo Switch 2, BMO's Pitz said. The other console makers, ( ) and ( ), aren't expected to release new hardware until 2026 at the earliest. In its annual report and forecast for the video game industry, DFC Intelligence said, "2025 is expected to see the launch of two of the biggest products ever: a new Nintendo system and 'Grand Theft Auto 6.'" DFC Intelligence notes that there hasn't been a new console launched since 2020. The digital media research firm argues that there's a "pent-up demand" for new hardware. Take-Two ranks fifth out of 21 stocks in IBD's Computer Software-Gaming industry group, according to . TTWO stock has an of 55 out of 99.
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LSU outlasts UCF 109-102 in triple-OT affairNEW YORK, N.Y., Dec. 17, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — 4DDiG, a leading software solutions provider, and unit of Tenorshare, is spreading holiday cheer with the launch of its exciting 2024 Christmas Sale ! Starting December 12, 2024, customers can enjoy discounts of up to 80% on a wide selection of 4DDiG’s top-rated products, including PC and mobile data recovery software, AI-powered photo and video enhancer, disk management tool, and duplicate file remover. WHAT YOU CAN GET FROM THE 4DDIG CHRISTMAS SALE? Get Up to 80% Off This promotion includes all the tools you need, whether you’re looking to recover deleted photos from your SD card or try the latest AI video enhancer. Take advantage of the best discounts of the year: 4DDiG Data Recovery at $32.16/Month for Windows & $39.16/Month for Mac 4DDiG File Repair at $25.16/Month for Windows & $41.99/Month for Mac 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter at $17.46/Month for Windows & Mac UltData for iOS at $32.16/Month for Windows & $39.16/Month for Mac UltData for Android at $25.16/Month for Windows & $39.16/Month for Mac UltData for Whatsapp at $25.16/Month for Windows & $32.16/Month for Mac In 4DDiG Christmas Sale, the most worthwhile product to purchase is 4DDiG Data Recovery , which can recover lost data from over 2,000 types of storage devices. The best part of this software is that, compared to other alternatives, it offers the best data recovery experience at the most affordable price. Learn more: https://4ddig.tenorshare.com/special-offers.html https://4ddig.tenorshare.com/windows-data-recovery.html START AT $9.90 For a limited time, grab 4DDiG DLL Fixer and 4DDiG Disk Manager for only $9.90 – an offer you won’t find anywhere else this year. This offer is perfect for users who want to clone disks or migrate operating systems at the lowest cost. BUY 1 GET 1 FREE Buy 4DDiG Data Recovery and get a 4DDiG Duplicate File Deleter for free, or buy 4DDiG File Repair and receive the same amazing gift! Double the value for your purchase. WIN AMAZON SHOPPING CARD FOR FREE Follow 4DDiG on social media for a chance to win amazing prizes, including a $200 Amazon gift card! Here’s how you can participate: Step 1: Subscribe to any of 4DDiG’s official social media channels to unlock one entry into the lucky draw. You can earn up to five chances in total. Step 2: After that, click the “Start” button to spin the wheel and see if you’ve won a prize. About 4DDiG: 4DDiG is a software company with over ten years of experience, known for its advanced data recovery solutions. The company’s flagship product, 4DDiG Data Recovery, has been highly recognized by authoritative websites such as Make Use Of, PCWorld, and XDA-Developers. 4DDiG is now focusing on the development and application of AI technology. One of the company’s innovative AI-powered tools, 4DDiG File Repair, not only repairs damaged multimedia files but also colorize and enhance them. For more information about Tenorshare 4DDiG Christmas Sales, visit: https://4ddig.tenorshare.com/special-offers.html Social sites: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4DDiG/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenorshare_4ddig/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/Tenorshare4DDiG YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Tenorshare4DDiGDataRecovery/featured NEWS SOURCE: Tenorshare Co. Ltd. Keywords: Software, 4DDiG, Tenorshare, holiday sale, 4DDiG Data Recovery, File Repair, NEW YORK, N.Y. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Tenorshare Co. Ltd.) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire . Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P122917 APDF15TBLLI To view the original version, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/4ddig-christmas-sale-2024-enjoy-up-to-80-off-on-top-software-products/ © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Expected Growth of U.S. LNG Exports to Support Nearly 500,000 Jobs Annually and Add $1.3 Trillion to United States Gross Domestic Product Through 2040, New S&P Global Study Finds
Relaxed, sunny and vibrant, Brisbane is the city that most reflects an outsider’s idea of Aussie life. Often compared to Melbourne and Sydney – Australia’s biggest and best-known cities – Brisbane has carved out its own identity, tapping into its perennially sunny and warm weather and a more carefree vibe, but increasingly with great bars, clubs and riverside arts venues in tow. While the Queensland capital was once seen as a stop-over, now you’d be hard-pressed not to stay on, with an abundance of whisky bars, boutique hotels and buzzing riverside arts venues like the Powerhouse , QPAC and QAGOMA , the latter hosting the renowned Asia-Pacific Triennial . Brisbane’s skyline and river at twilight Credit: iStock Brisbane’s South Bank – unlike the Yarra’s in Melbourne – also boasts outdoor swimming spots, as well as a climate where that is actually viable. And the city’s biggest cultural celebration, the Brisbane Festival, brings everyone together with a series of must-see events. Home to renowned institutions including the University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and Griffith University, Brisbane also boasts a range of student-friendly suburbs. Here’s a guide to the best areas for students to live and what makes them appealing. ST LUCIA Home to the University of Queensland, St Lucia is a prime spot for anyone wanting to be a short walk or bike ride away from lectures, libraries and jacaranda-lined campus strolls. This leafy riverside suburb offers a peaceful vibe perfect for study sessions, with a mix of share-houses and modern apartments to suit every budget. Hawken Drive is the go-to strip for food, where you’ll find everything from Persian to Italian eats, a handy IGA and plenty of coffee stops to fuel your late-night cramming. Not a fan of walking? Buses zip through the suburb like clockwork, connecting you to Brisbane’s CBD or nearby shopping hubs Indooroopilly and Toowong. If you’re after a perfect mix of convenience, culture and community, St Lucia is the place to be. TOOWONG Next door to St Lucia, Toowong offers the ideal blend of convenience, community and fun for students. With bustling Toowong Village Shopping Centre packed with retail stores, grocery stores and dining options, you’ll never go hungry or be bored. Plus, excellent public transport links – trains, buses and bike-friendly paths – make getting to UQ, the Gardens Point campus or even Brisbane Airport a breeze. The University of Queensland campus. Credit: Jamila Toderas Toowong also has a lively yet laid-back vibe, giving you plenty to do in your downtime. Explore riverside parks, chill at cosy cafes or dive into the suburb’s social scene. Need a break from student life? It’s easy to escape to green spaces or head into the city, just four kilometres away. Health and wellness are handy, too, with plenty of medical centres, physio clinics and proximity to Brisbane’s major hospitals. Whether you’re after study spots, shopping or suburban serenity, Toowong is a super student-friendly suburb that has it all. For those who prefer a location near UQ without being in the thick of campus life, Toowong lets you enjoy the best of both worlds. KELVIN GROVE Just three kilometres from the CBD, it’s home to QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus, offering modern student housing, lush parks and the buzzing Kelvin Grove Urban Village. This community hub is your one-stop shop for everything: weekly markets, cafes and plenty of events that keep the vibe lively and welcoming. Transport is a breeze, with frequent buses, ample cycle paths and even a free shuttle to QUT’s Gardens Point campus. The area’s bike-friendly set-up makes it perfect for exploring the city or just cruising around campus. The Village Markets are a great place to chill and shop, offering local produce, vintage finds and artisan goods. Kelvin Grove is also known for its student-friendly eateries like The Menagerie (happy hour, anyone?), Grill’d and Golden Lava Toast, and La Boite Theatre is a great option for catching a play. WEST END If you want a vibrant, artsy lifestyle, West End is the place to be. This trendy suburb is bursting with creativity, from colourful street art to live music venues and cultural festivals. A fire twirler at Brisbane’s West End Solstice Market. It’s a hub for night owls, foodies and culture enthusiasts, offering an endless array of cafes, bars and restaurants serving cuisines from every corner of the globe. A short stroll from South Brisbane and close to universities like QUT, West End is as convenient as it is exciting. Boundary Street is the heart of the action, with vintage shops, buzzing markets and a constant stream of local events to explore. And when you need a quiet moment, nearby Musgrave Park provides the perfect green space to unwind or catch up with friends. SOUTH BRISBANE Just across the river from Brisbane’s CBD, South Brisbane is a student’s dream come true. This riverside gem offers easy access to public transport, affordable student housing and some of the city’s best cultural and recreational hotspots. It’s also home to Griffith University’s South Bank campus and just a stone’s throw from the Queensland Conservatorium, making it an ideal spot for students looking for convenience – but with a creative bent. South Brisbane boasts a vibrant cultural scene anchored by the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) and the State Library of Queensland. Haus Yuriyal’s Garpa (ground) paintings at the 11th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, Queensland Art Gallery. Credit: C Callistemon © QAGOMA Add in regular markets, the iconic Brisbane Festival and a buzzing nightlife filled with outdoor dining, and you’ve got a suburb where something is always going on. For those into nature, the South Bank Parklands are a weekend must-visit, offering everything from Streets Beach and picnic-perfect lawns to the dazzling Wheel of Brisbane. With seamless transport links to the CBD, this multicultural hub blends serene riverside vibes with a thriving food, fashion and arts scene.
AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6:25 p.m. EST
NoneButler scores 35, Bowling Green beats Morgan State 102-81
NoneBritain's leader Keir Starmer makes his first trip to the Gulf as prime minister from Sunday, seeking to attract investment from the region's oil-rich states, Downing Street announced. Starmer will first visit the United Arab Emirates and then travel to Saudi Arabia, before stopping off in Cyprus on his way back to London on Tuesday in a bid "to build closer ties and drive long term UK growth". The trip to Abu Dhabi and Riyadh comes as his Labour government pursues a free-trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council's six nations: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE. "There is huge untapped potential in this region, which is why, while here, I will be making the case to accelerate progress on the Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement," Starmer said in a statement released Saturday. The meetings will also aim to "deepen our research and development collaboration" and partner on projects in areas including defence and artificial intelligence, Starmer added. The British leader will land in the UAE on Sunday evening, ahead of Monday morning talks with its president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Later Monday, Starmer will fly to Saudi Arabia to meet Riyadh's de facto leader Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who last week hosted French President Emmanuel Macron. A Downing Street press release called the UAE and Saudi "some of the UK's most vital modern-day partners". The regional tour will end on Tuesday with Starmer meeting President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia, the first bilateral talks between the leaders of Britain and Cyprus in over five decades. Starmer is also due to address British troops stationed in Cyprus. Labour has staked its credibility on a promise to get Britain's sluggish economy firing again. It says a GCC agreement could boost bilateral trade, currently accounting for £55 billion ($70 bn) of UK trade, by 16 percent, "potentially adding an extra £8.6 billion a year in the long run". It hopes a deal would see Gulf sovereign wealth funds invest in a range of sectors, including energy and infrastructure, while also opening up lucrative markets to British firms. Starmer's trip comes after Britain last week rolled out the diplomatic red carpet for Qatar's emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani who enjoyed a state visit to the UK. Starmer discussed trade with the royal during talks in Downing Street that coincided with Qatar announcing it will invest £1 billion ($1.3 billion) in British climate technologies. Discussing regional conflicts is expected to be "high up the agenda", including the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon and renewed unrest in Syria. Starmer will also be looking to repair relations between the UK and UAE that soured under the previous Conservative government after an Abu Dhabi-backed bid to buy the Telegraph newspaper failed. The Gulf visit will be Starmer's 15th international trip since he entered Number 10 on July 5. Opponents have criticised the amount of time he has spent out of the country but allies insist the trips have been vital to get to know other world leaders. Starmer, 61, has been insisting in capitals that "Britain is back on the world stage" following rancour over its departure from the European Union. pdh/aks/jj