SYDNEY -- "Sydney has transformed dramatically over recent years, and we need to ensure we have a strong and vibrant night-time economy that reflects our position as Australia's only truly global city," New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

The Australian city of Sydney's controversial lockout laws will be wound back as of January next year, including the removal of last entry time for venues in the city's central business district.

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WASHINGTON -- The U.S. economy expanded "modestly" from October through mid-November while retailers reported higher costs resulting from tariffs, according to a Federal Reserve survey released on Wednesday.

"Most Districts reported stable to moderately growing consumer spending, and increases in auto sales and tourism were seen across several Districts," said the Fed in its latest survey on economic conditions, known as the Beige Book, based on information collected from its 12 regional reserve banks.

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UNITED NATIONS -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday said the Israeli settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories have "no legal validity" and constitute "a flagrant violation" of international law.

"Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains one of the most intractable challenges facing the international community. Regrettably, over the past year, there have been no positive developments, and the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate," Guterres said in his message for the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

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RAMALLAH -- Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Ishtaye called on Wednesday for European pressure on Israel to hold the Palestinian general elections in East Jerusalem.

"The Palestinian leadership has a firm political will to hold the general elections and overcome any challenges imposed by any party on the other," Ishtaye said. Enditem

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