Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors.

Insisting that the Centre has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity, he said farmers across the country were innovating and that it was the duty of his government to ensure their produce got a good market.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-plans-to-privatise-psus-in-all-sectors-barring-4-strategic-ones-pm-modi-365966">Centre plans to privatise PSUs in all sectors barring 4 strategic ones: PM Modi</a>

"Good roads do exactly that," he said while laying the foundation stone for the four-laning of NH 45 A Sattanathapuram-Nagappattinam stretch covering Karaikal district. 
The four-laning activity will certainly lead to better connectivity while economic activity will pick up pace, he said.

At the same time it will improve access to the holy Shaneeswaran temple at Tirunallar and provide easy interstate connectivity to The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and the Nagore Dargah, both located in nearby Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, he noted.

"The four laning will also draw industry and ensure job opportunities for local youth," Modi said, while assuring all possible help for the development of this union territory.

"The government of India has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity. The agriculture sector will gain from this (four laning). Across India our farmers are innovating. It is our duty to ensure their produce get good market," he added.

The Prime Minister inaugurated a Blood Centre at state-run JIPMER, a Sports Authority of India (SAI) girls hostel at Lawspet and a reconstructed Heritage Mairie Building. The heritage building will add to the beauty of the beach promenade.

He laid the foundation stone for the Medical College Building at Karaikal New Campus of JIPMER-Phase I and the development of Minor Port at Puducherry under Sagarmala scheme.

Modi also laid the foundation stone of Synthetic Athletic Track at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in the Union Territory.

The starting of various development works will improve people's life in Puducherry and the works cover diverse sectors, he said.

Observing that prosperity was closely linked to good health, Modi stated that India in the last seven years has made many efforts to improve fitness and wellness.

The SAI hostel is "one more attempt to improve" sporting facilities in India, he said, adding, the 100-bed building will accommodate sportswoman from volleyball, hockey, weightlifting and kabaddi among others.

On healthcare, he said it was one sector that would play a key role in the coming years and noted that "nations that invest in health care will shine."

The inauguration of the Blood Centre in JIPMER at Rs 28 crore was "in line with our objective to provide quality healthcare to all," he said.

Yet again quoting from the Tamil treatise Tirukkural, penned by saint-poet Tiruvalluvar, he said "learning and education are the true wealth while all other things are not stable."

Stressing the need for quality health professionals to promote healthcare, he said, "Phase I of medical college building at (JIPMER) Karaikal new campus is a step in that direction. This new environment-friendly complex will have all modern teaching facilities required."

On the minor ports initiative, the PM said once completed it will help our fishermen. It will provide much-required sea connectivity to Chennai...Will facilitate the cargo movement for Puducherry and ease load of Chennai port. It will open up possibilities of passenger traffic among coastal cities."

Modi said Puducherry has got rich human resources due to various educational institutions, both in government and private sectors.

It has a tourism and industrial potential that will provide a lot of employment opportunities, he added.

Praising the people of Puducherry, Modi called them 'talented.'

"The land is beautiful. I am here to personally assure all possible support from my government for the development of the UT," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated a slew of completed projects here and laid the foundation stone for others, including in the ports and highways sectors. Insisting that the Centre has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity, he said farmers across the country were innovating and that it was the duty of his government to ensure their produce got a good market. Also read | Centre plans to privatise PSUs in all sectors barring 4 strategic ones: PM Modi "Good roads do exactly that," he said while laying the foundation stone for the four-laning of NH 45 A Sattanathapuram-Nagappattinam stretch covering Karaikal district. The four-laning activity will certainly lead to better connectivity while economic activity will pick up pace, he said. At the same time it will improve access to the holy Shaneeswaran temple at Tirunallar and provide easy interstate connectivity to The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and the Nagore Dargah, both located in nearby Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, he noted. "The four laning will also draw industry and ensure job opportunities for local youth," Modi said, while assuring all possible help for the development of this union territory. "The government of India has made many efforts to improve rural and coastal connectivity. The agriculture sector will gain from this (four laning). Across India our farmers are innovating. It is our duty to ensure their produce get good market," he added. The Prime Minister inaugurated a Blood Centre at state-run JIPMER, a Sports Authority of India (SAI) girls hostel at Lawspet and a reconstructed Heritage Mairie Building. The heritage building will add to the beauty of the beach promenade. He laid the foundation stone for the Medical College Building at Karaikal New Campus of JIPMER-Phase I and the development of Minor Port at Puducherry under Sagarmala scheme. Modi also laid the foundation stone of Synthetic Athletic Track at Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in the Union Territory. The starting of various development works will improve people's life in Puducherry and the works cover diverse sectors, he said. Observing that prosperity was closely linked to good health, Modi stated that India in the last seven years has made many efforts to improve fitness and wellness. The SAI hostel is "one more attempt to improve" sporting facilities in India, he said, adding, the 100-bed building will accommodate sportswoman from volleyball, hockey, weightlifting and kabaddi among others. On healthcare, he said it was one sector that would play a key role in the coming years and noted that "nations that invest in health care will shine." The inauguration of the Blood Centre in JIPMER at Rs 28 crore was "in line with our objective to provide quality healthcare to all," he said. Yet again quoting from the Tamil treatise Tirukkural, penned by saint-poet Tiruvalluvar, he said "learning and education are the true wealth while all other things are not stable." Stressing the need for quality health professionals to promote healthcare, he said, "Phase I of medical college building at (JIPMER) Karaikal new campus is a step in that direction. This new environment-friendly complex will have all modern teaching facilities required." On the minor ports initiative, the PM said once completed it will help our fishermen. It will provide much-required sea connectivity to Chennai...Will facilitate the cargo movement for Puducherry and ease load of Chennai port. It will open up possibilities of passenger traffic among coastal cities." Modi said Puducherry has got rich human resources due to various educational institutions, both in government and private sectors. It has a tourism and industrial potential that will provide a lot of employment opportunities, he added. Praising the people of Puducherry, Modi called them 'talented.' "The land is beautiful. I am here to personally assure all possible support from my government for the development of the UT," he added.

PM launches various projects in Puducherry; assures Centre's support for UT's development 

A Russian court handed over eight years sentence to a man on Thursday who was found guilty of state treason for sharing secrets to China, a report said.&nbsp;

Vladimir Vasilyev pleaded guilty to the charge of treason, Russian state news agency TASS reported.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-warns-of-foreign-efforts-to-destabilise-and-shackle-russia-365986">Putin warns of foreign efforts to destabilise and shackle Russia</a>

The 52-year-old was arrested in August 2019 in Russia's eastern Siberian Zabaykalsky region that borders Mongolia and China.

His trial was conducted behind closed doors and the details of it were not shared publicly because of its classified nature.&nbsp;

Vasilyev gathered and provided information that constituted a state secret to China's intelligence agencies, the report mentioning a law enforcement source.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-pro-navalny-rallies-russia-increases-fines-for-protest-violations-365919">After pro-Navalny rallies, Russia increases fines for protest violations</a>

To the unversed, Russia's ties with China has grown immensely since Kremlin started facing a boycott from the West following the annexation of Crimea.&nbsp;

In 2020, state prosecutors charged a famous Russian scientist with treason for giving secrets to China.&nbsp;

Another scientist was arrested last October for allegedly passing technology to China.&nbsp;

Treason cases have also spiked up in Russia in recent months.&nbsp;

Former newspaper journalist Ivan Safronov's case has triggered anger among his supporters over the secrecy surrounding the treason allegation, making it difficult to find the veracity of the case.&nbsp;

A Russian court handed over eight years sentence to a man on Thursday who was found guilty of state treason for sharing secrets to China, a report said. Vladimir Vasilyev pleaded guilty to the charge of treason, Russian state news agency TASS reported.

A Russian court handed over eight years sentence to a man on Thursday who was found guilty of state treason for sharing secrets to China, a report said. Vladimir Vasilyev pleaded guilty to the charge of treason, Russian state news agency TASS reported. Also read | Putin warns of foreign efforts to destabilise and shackle Russia The 52-year-old was arrested in August 2019 in Russia's eastern Siberian Zabaykalsky region that borders Mongolia and China. His trial was conducted behind closed doors and the details of it were not shared publicly because of its classified nature. Vasilyev gathered and provided information that constituted a state secret to China's intelligence agencies, the report mentioning a law enforcement source. Also read | After pro-Navalny rallies, Russia increases fines for protest violations To the unversed, Russia's ties with China has grown immensely since Kremlin started facing a boycott from the West following the annexation of Crimea. In 2020, state prosecutors charged a famous Russian scientist with treason for giving secrets to China. Another scientist was arrested last October for allegedly passing technology to China. Treason cases have also spiked up in Russia in recent months. Former newspaper journalist Ivan Safronov's case has triggered anger among his supporters over the secrecy surrounding the treason allegation, making it difficult to find the veracity of the case.

Man sentenced to eight years in Russia for sharing secrets with China: Report

At 5, Juan Jimenez must have not realised that he will see his three-year-old brother only after 32 years.

Jhonatan, who was then three, was playing with his brother Alfonso in their garden in western Bogota, Colombia on Sept. 25, 1987, when a family friend approached him to buy candy.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-first-lady-to-help-reunite-migrant-kids-with-parents-360280">US first lady to help reunite migrant kids with parents</a>

Older brother Juan was looking out the window when the man disappeared with his brother.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/disabled-man-reunited-with-family-after-2-years-through-tiktok-300796">Disabled man reunited with family after 2 years through TikTok</a>

The grief of the lost son stayed with his mother Ana as Juan was growing up.&nbsp;

A few years later in 1994, the same man came to Jimenez's house to claim that he took away the child as the boys' stepfather asked him to the same.&nbsp;

He falsely said that Juan's younger brother had been adopted in the United States.

Juan in 2007 moved to the US to make a career in acting and in search of Jhonatan.&nbsp;

"I grew up seeing Mommy suffering so much ... that was my big desire, to try to do something in this situation," Juan told news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

The man who had taken man Jhonatan was found on social media, but before Juan could meet him, he died.&nbsp;

Later MyHeritage, a DNA company tried matching Juan's DNA.

In 2019, Juan received a message from a 34-year-old lawyer in Norway, who told him he had been adopted when he was four and was trying to find his biological family.

"The (DNA) result suggests you are my half brother, uncle or nephew," the message said.&nbsp;

"It seems I am closer to finding more information about what happened in Colombia in the 80s."

Juan in January 2020 sent to Norway to meet Jhonatan, now John.&nbsp;

The Jimenez brothers then came back to Colombia.

"I always wanted to find my family," Jhonatan said.&nbsp;

"It was hard for me going through all my childhood, not knowing about my biological family."

"We can never get back the 32 years we missed. But we can make the next 32 the most amazing moments in our lives." 
&nbsp;

At 5, Juan Jimenez must have not realised that he will see his three-year-old brother only after 32 years. Jhonatan, who was then three, was playing with his brother Alfonso in their garden in western Bogota, Colombia on Sept.

At 5, Juan Jimenez must have not realised that he will see his three-year-old brother only after 32 years. Jhonatan, who was then three, was playing with his brother Alfonso in their garden in western Bogota, Colombia on Sept. 25, 1987, when a family friend approached him to buy candy. Also read | US first lady to help reunite migrant kids with parents Older brother Juan was looking out the window when the man disappeared with his brother. Also read | Disabled man reunited with family after 2 years through TikTok The grief of the lost son stayed with his mother Ana as Juan was growing up. A few years later in 1994, the same man came to Jimenez's house to claim that he took away the child as the boys' stepfather asked him to the same. He falsely said that Juan's younger brother had been adopted in the United States. Juan in 2007 moved to the US to make a career in acting and in search of Jhonatan. "I grew up seeing Mommy suffering so much ... that was my big desire, to try to do something in this situation," Juan told news agency Reuters. The man who had taken man Jhonatan was found on social media, but before Juan could meet him, he died. Later MyHeritage, a DNA company tried matching Juan's DNA. In 2019, Juan received a message from a 34-year-old lawyer in Norway, who told him he had been adopted when he was four and was trying to find his biological family. "The (DNA) result suggests you are my half brother, uncle or nephew," the message said. "It seems I am closer to finding more information about what happened in Colombia in the 80s." Juan in January 2020 sent to Norway to meet Jhonatan, now John. The Jimenez brothers then came back to Colombia. "I always wanted to find my family," Jhonatan said. "It was hard for me going through all my childhood, not knowing about my biological family." "We can never get back the 32 years we missed. But we can make the next 32 the most amazing moments in our lives."

Colombian finds his younger brother after 32 years

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020.&nbsp;

In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-10th-round-of-military-talks-last-for-nearly-16-hours-365248/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian government promptly retaliated by banning hundreds of Chinese apps.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-relationship-with-china-is-one-of-strong-competition-365698">White House says relationship with China is one of 'strong competition'</a>

However, the bilateral trade between both nations in 2020 stood at $77.7 billion.&nbsp;

Even though this number is lower than the last year's $85.5 billion, but it still was enough for China to retain its numero uno position, according to the provisional data from the Indian commerce ministry.

Total imports from China into India stood at $58.7 billion, which exceeded the combined purchases from the US and UAE, its second and third-biggest trade partners.

"Imports from China are cheap and available quickly in sufficient amounts. Imports from several other sources are not as cost-effective, and as easily available, as they are from China," National University of Singapore economist Amitendu Palit was quoted as saying by BBC.

Meanwhile, militaries of both the countries completed the pullback of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.&nbsp;

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020. In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations.

Despite the strained ties between India and China last year, Beijing emerged as New Delhi's top trading partner in 2020. In June 2020, 20 Indian security personnel had lost their lives in a violent clash with China at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh which triggered tensions between both neighbouring nations. Watch | The Indian government promptly retaliated by banning hundreds of Chinese apps. Also read | White House says relationship with China is one of 'strong competition' However, the bilateral trade between both nations in 2020 stood at $77.7 billion. Even though this number is lower than the last year's $85.5 billion, but it still was enough for China to retain its numero uno position, according to the provisional data from the Indian commerce ministry. Total imports from China into India stood at $58.7 billion, which exceeded the combined purchases from the US and UAE, its second and third-biggest trade partners. "Imports from China are cheap and available quickly in sufficient amounts. Imports from several other sources are not as cost-effective, and as easily available, as they are from China," National University of Singapore economist Amitendu Palit was quoted as saying by BBC. Meanwhile, militaries of both the countries completed the pullback of forces and weaponry from the North and South banks of Pangong.

Despite strained ties, China returns as India's top trading partner

A rights group on Wednesday highlighted how China has dramatically increased the systemic prosecution of Muslim minorities through formal courts systems on dubious charges such as "picking quarrels".

"Despite the veneer of legality, many of those in Xinjiang's prisons are ordinary people who were convicted for going about their lives and practising their religion," Human Rights Watch (HRW) researcher Maya Wang was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The organisation also said that over 250,000 people in Xinjiang have been sentenced and imprisoned since 2016.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disregards-facts-and-common-sense-china-decries-canadas-motion-saying-its-treatment-of-uighurs-is-genocide-365690">'Disregards facts and common sense': China decries Canada's motion saying its treatment of Uighurs is 'genocide'</a>

These criminal convictions had increased between 2017 and 2019 during a crackdown on Uighurs and other and other majorly Muslim minorities.

About 100,000 people were sentenced by courts in Xinjiang in 2017, up from less than 40,000 in 2016, the HRW said, mentioning government figures.&nbsp;

It also accused the Chinese administration to put pressure on police, courts and prosecutors to "deliver swift and harsh punishment" on grounds of terrorism, causing several people sent to jail without committing any genuine offence.

Convictions are given on activities such as "telling others 'what is haram and halal'" and bringing gifts to relatives in Turkey, HRW said.&nbsp;

It also said that the prison term has grown longer.&nbsp;

The HRW's comments came a day after the European Union asked China to allow UN human rights boss Michelle Bachelet visit the region and investigate the alleged human rights violations against Uighurs.&nbsp;

"Once again, we urge China to allow meaningful access to Xinjiang for independent observers, including High Commissioner Bachelet. This is key to enable an independent, impartial and transparent assessment of the grave concerns that the international community has," European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said while addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A rights group on Wednesday highlighted how China has dramatically increased the systemic prosecution of Muslim minorities through formal courts systems on dubious charges such as "picking quarrels".

A rights group on Wednesday highlighted how China has dramatically increased the systemic prosecution of Muslim minorities through formal courts systems on dubious charges such as "picking quarrels". "Despite the veneer of legality, many of those in Xinjiang's prisons are ordinary people who were convicted for going about their lives and practising their religion," Human Rights Watch (HRW) researcher Maya Wang was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Watch | The organisation also said that over 250,000 people in Xinjiang have been sentenced and imprisoned since 2016. Also read | 'Disregards facts and common sense': China decries Canada's motion saying its treatment of Uighurs is 'genocide' These criminal convictions had increased between 2017 and 2019 during a crackdown on Uighurs and other and other majorly Muslim minorities. About 100,000 people were sentenced by courts in Xinjiang in 2017, up from less than 40,000 in 2016, the HRW said, mentioning government figures. It also accused the Chinese administration to put pressure on police, courts and prosecutors to "deliver swift and harsh punishment" on grounds of terrorism, causing several people sent to jail without committing any genuine offence. Convictions are given on activities such as "telling others 'what is haram and halal'" and bringing gifts to relatives in Turkey, HRW said. It also said that the prison term has grown longer. The HRW's comments came a day after the European Union asked China to allow UN human rights boss Michelle Bachelet visit the region and investigate the alleged human rights violations against Uighurs. "Once again, we urge China to allow meaningful access to Xinjiang for independent observers, including High Commissioner Bachelet. This is key to enable an independent, impartial and transparent assessment of the grave concerns that the international community has," European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said while addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Rights group says Uighur convictions rise as EU demands access to Xinjiang

Former US presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama have expressed confidence that golf legend Tiger Woods will overcome his injuries following a brutal car crash near Los Angeles on Tuesday

Trump, who honoured Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019, called the incident "very tragic".&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"He will be back. I have no doubt about it. He will be back," Trump told Fox News.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-receives-serious-injuries-after-car-crash-near-los-angeles-365776">Tiger Woods receives 'serious injuries' after car crash near Los Angeles</a>

He added that Woods has "overcome a lot," and he is going to continue living an "ïncredible life".&nbsp;

Trump's predecessor Barack Obama in a tweet on Wednesday wished Woods a "speedy recovery," adding that never "count Tiger out".&nbsp;

"Sending my prayers to @TigerWoods and his family tonight -- here's to a speedy recovery for the GOAT (Greatest of all Time) of golf. If we've learned anything over the years, it's to never count Tiger out," Obama tweeted.&nbsp;

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Sending my prayers to <a href="https://twitter.com/TigerWoods?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TigerWoods</a> and his family tonight—here’s to a speedy recovery for the GOAT of golf. If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s to never count Tiger out.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1364391500864499715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Woods' car flew off the road and then rolled over, something which a law enforcement official described as "very fortunate" to come out alive.&nbsp;

Trump, who himself is an avid golf lover, also said that television ratings were high when Woods was playing.&nbsp;

"All I say is get better and get out there, because we all miss him. We need Tiger," Trump said.&nbsp;

"It's very few people that cause that kind of a phenomenon."

Former US presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama have expressed confidence that golf legend Tiger Woods will overcome his injuries following a brutal car crash near Los Angeles on Tuesday Trump, who honoured Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019, called the incident "very tragic".

Former US presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama have expressed confidence that golf legend Tiger Woods will overcome his injuries following a brutal car crash near Los Angeles on Tuesday Trump, who honoured Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019, called the incident "very tragic". Watch | "He will be back. I have no doubt about it. He will be back," Trump told Fox News. Also read | Tiger Woods receives 'serious injuries' after car crash near Los Angeles He added that Woods has "overcome a lot," and he is going to continue living an "ïncredible life". Trump's predecessor Barack Obama in a tweet on Wednesday wished Woods a "speedy recovery," adding that never "count Tiger out". "Sending my prayers to @TigerWoods and his family tonight -- here's to a speedy recovery for the GOAT (Greatest of all Time) of golf. If we've learned anything over the years, it's to never count Tiger out," Obama tweeted. Sending my prayers to @TigerWoods and his family tonight—here’s to a speedy recovery for the GOAT of golf. If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s to never count Tiger out. — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) February 24, 2021 × Woods' car flew off the road and then rolled over, something which a law enforcement official described as "very fortunate" to come out alive. Trump, who himself is an avid golf lover, also said that television ratings were high when Woods was playing. "All I say is get better and get out there, because we all miss him. We need Tiger," Trump said. "It's very few people that cause that kind of a phenomenon."

'He will be back': Trump, Obama express confidence on Tiger Woods' recovery

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war".&nbsp;

In the first congressional hearing on Senate on the attack, security officials pointed that there were not even "remote" and "improbable" chances of a probable violence by the assessments made by intelligence officials.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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"No entity, including the FBI, provided any intelligence indicating that there would be a coordinated violent attack on the United States Capitol by thousands of well-equipped armed insurrectionists," said the US Capitol Police's then-chief Steven Sund.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defence-says-trump-bears-no-responsibility-for-us-capitol-attack-as-impeachment-trial-set-to-conclude-363294">Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude</a>

Sund also said that the officials had prepared for a protest, but not "a military-style coordinated assault".

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) sent a report to the US Capitol Police that the rioters arrived in Washington "ready for war".&nbsp;

In the testimony, &nbsp;police chiefs and the House and Senate sergeants told the Senate how they were outnumbered by armed and coordinated attackers.&nbsp;

Washington's acting police chief Robert Contee said his cops were literally "fighting for their lives" on the day of the assault.&nbsp;

The assault on the US Capitol that left five people dead including one police officer drew condemnation from across the world.

Sund, House sergeant-at-arms Paul Irving and Senate sergeant-at-arms Michael Stenger were the top officials who resigned after the incident.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war".

US Capitol security officials blamed Tuesday intelligence failures for the deadly assault on January 6 and said that the rioters came to Washington "ready for war". In the first congressional hearing on Senate on the attack, security officials pointed that there were not even "remote" and "improbable" chances of a probable violence by the assessments made by intelligence officials. Watch | "No entity, including the FBI, provided any intelligence indicating that there would be a coordinated violent attack on the United States Capitol by thousands of well-equipped armed insurrectionists," said the US Capitol Police's then-chief Steven Sund. Also read | Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude Sund also said that the officials had prepared for a protest, but not "a military-style coordinated assault". The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) sent a report to the US Capitol Police that the rioters arrived in Washington "ready for war". In the testimony, police chiefs and the House and Senate sergeants told the Senate how they were outnumbered by armed and coordinated attackers. Washington's acting police chief Robert Contee said his cops were literally "fighting for their lives" on the day of the assault. The assault on the US Capitol that left five people dead including one police officer drew condemnation from across the world. Sund, House sergeant-at-arms Paul Irving and Senate sergeant-at-arms Michael Stenger were the top officials who resigned after the incident.

US Capitol riot: Security officials say rioters came 'ready for war'

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades.&nbsp;

This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets.&nbsp;

The 20-member unit comprises 10 men and 10 women cops who were seen gliding in a circle and lowering and lifting their unloaded guns in unison.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-president-meets-pakistans-imran-khan-365844">Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan</a>

"We felt we needed to come up with an innovative approach to control street crime," Farrukh Ali, head of unit, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

He explained how these police officers can comfortably nab thieves riding bikes. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fdi-in-pakistan-down-by-27-per-cent-in-the-first-seven-months-investment-from-china-dwindles-report-365744">FDI in Pakistan down by 27 per cent in the first seven months; investment from China dwindles: Report</a>

"This rollerblading will really benefit us. With this training, we can reach narrow alleys very quickly where it is usually difficult to go," Aneela Aslam, an officer of the group said.&nbsp;

However, Farrukh said this team cannot be deployed across many parts of the city as rollerblading require good and even roads.&nbsp;

They would be commissioned to public places where the theft and harassment rate is high, the unit chief said.&nbsp;

He also said that the unit would only use handguns, and in certain locations, including shopping malls, the cops will not be armed.&nbsp;

These police officers are expected to officially begin this duty next month, though, they were recently seen deployed outside the venue of the Pakistan Super League cricket tournament.

They have also started patrolling Karachi's bustling beachfront.

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades. This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets.

Don't get surprised if in Pakistan's Karachi you see cops running after criminals with rollerblades. This is a part of rigorous training of a group of police officers for a new armed rollerblading unit to control theft and harassment on the city's streets. The 20-member unit comprises 10 men and 10 women cops who were seen gliding in a circle and lowering and lifting their unloaded guns in unison. Also read | Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan "We felt we needed to come up with an innovative approach to control street crime," Farrukh Ali, head of unit, was quoted as saying by news agency Reuters. He explained how these police officers can comfortably nab thieves riding bikes. Also read | FDI in Pakistan down by 27 per cent in the first seven months; investment from China dwindles: Report "This rollerblading will really benefit us. With this training, we can reach narrow alleys very quickly where it is usually difficult to go," Aneela Aslam, an officer of the group said. However, Farrukh said this team cannot be deployed across many parts of the city as rollerblading require good and even roads. They would be commissioned to public places where the theft and harassment rate is high, the unit chief said. He also said that the unit would only use handguns, and in certain locations, including shopping malls, the cops will not be armed. These police officers are expected to officially begin this duty next month, though, they were recently seen deployed outside the venue of the Pakistan Super League cricket tournament. They have also started patrolling Karachi's bustling beachfront.

Meet Karachi's cops who roll on 'blades' to catch criminals

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo.&nbsp;

"We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-ambassador-to-dr-congo-dies-in-attack-365565/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said "clear and exhaustive answers" are awaited.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hutu-rebels-blame-drc-rwanda-armies-for-italian-ambassadors-killing-365717">Hutu rebels blame DRC, Rwanda armies for Italian ambassador's killing</a>

Italian ambassador Luca Attanasio, his Italian bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci, and Congolese driver Moustapha Milambo died after a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy was ambushed on Monday.&nbsp;

The body of both the Italians, draped in Italian flags, reached Rome late on Tuesday, with the Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi receiving them at the Rome airport.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The DRC's interior ministry on Monday blamed "members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR)" for the killings.

FDLR is a Rwandan Hutu rebel group that has plagued the region for over 25 years.&nbsp;

However, the Rwandan rebel group denied the allegation and, instead blamed the Rwandan army and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) for the act in a statement.&nbsp;

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. "We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament.

Italy on Wednesday asked the United Nations for a probe into the killing of its envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. "We have formally asked WFP (World Food Programme) and the UN to open an investigation to clarify what happened, the reasons behind the security arrangements used and who was responsible for these decisions," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio told parliament. Watch | He said "clear and exhaustive answers" are awaited. Also read | Hutu rebels blame DRC, Rwanda armies for Italian ambassador's killing Italian ambassador Luca Attanasio, his Italian bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci, and Congolese driver Moustapha Milambo died after a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy was ambushed on Monday. The body of both the Italians, draped in Italian flags, reached Rome late on Tuesday, with the Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi receiving them at the Rome airport. The DRC's interior ministry on Monday blamed "members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR)" for the killings. FDLR is a Rwandan Hutu rebel group that has plagued the region for over 25 years. However, the Rwandan rebel group denied the allegation and, instead blamed the Rwandan army and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) for the act in a statement.

Italy urges UN to probe killing of Italian envoy in DR Congo

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture.&nbsp;

"Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI &nbsp;this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism &amp; adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on," Rajapaksa in a tweet wrote.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had a productive discussion with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> PM <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> this morning. 
The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism &amp; adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lka</a> <a href="https://t.co/j6iUMRcf4f">pic.twitter.com/j6iUMRcf4f</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1364480021683789825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Imran on Tuesday met his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa in which he said he was looking forward to improving trade relations with Sri Lanka through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Watch |&nbsp;

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He earlier described his visit to the island nation as aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties.&nbsp;

In an address post his meeting with the Sri Lankan PM, Imran said CPEC means connectivity right up to Central Asia.&nbsp;

Imran said he and his Sri Lankan counterpart "discussed other areas where we can enhance our trading ties where Sri Lanka can benefit from Pakistan's connectivity in the future, right up to central Asia."&nbsp;

"And our trading ties will also mean that the two countries will get together," the Pakistani PM said.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Imran will participate in a joint 'Trade and Investment Conference' that aims to promote trade and investment between the two countries.&nbsp;

A number of agreements to boost bilateral cooperation will also be signed during the Pakistani PM's visit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture. "Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa met Pakistani PM Imran Khan on Wednesday in Colombo in which the talks were focused on trade, tourism and agriculture. "Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism & adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on," Rajapaksa in a tweet wrote. Had a productive discussion with #Pakistani PM @ImranKhanPTI this morning. The discussions were mainly focused on common interests such as Trade, Tourism & adoption of technology in Agriculture which both countries could positively leverage on#SriLanka #Pakistan #lka pic.twitter.com/j6iUMRcf4f — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) February 24, 2021 × Imran on Tuesday met his Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa in which he said he was looking forward to improving trade relations with Sri Lanka through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Watch | He earlier described his visit to the island nation as aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties. In an address post his meeting with the Sri Lankan PM, Imran said CPEC means connectivity right up to Central Asia. Imran said he and his Sri Lankan counterpart "discussed other areas where we can enhance our trading ties where Sri Lanka can benefit from Pakistan's connectivity in the future, right up to central Asia." "And our trading ties will also mean that the two countries will get together," the Pakistani PM said. On Wednesday, Imran will participate in a joint 'Trade and Investment Conference' that aims to promote trade and investment between the two countries. A number of agreements to boost bilateral cooperation will also be signed during the Pakistani PM's visit.

Sri Lankan President meets Pakistan's Imran Khan

Tiger Woods who met a serious accident is currently "recovering" from his injuries, the hospital treating the golf legend said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Surgery was performed to repair "significant orthopaedic injuries" to Woods' lower right leg, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center chief medical officer Anish Mahajan said in a statement released on Woods' Twitter handle.

"He is currently awake, responsive, and recovering in his hospital room," it further said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Woods suffered serious injuries near Los Angeles on Tuesday after a severe car accident that law enforcement officials describe he was "very fortunate" to survive.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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He underwent surgery following the crash, the sheriff added.&nbsp;

Los Angeles County fire chief Daryl Osby said Woods received "serious injuries to both legs".&nbsp;

No other vehicle or were involved in the accident and the site of the accident is known as "hotspot" for high-speed accidents in recent times.&nbsp;

"I will say that it's very fortunate that Mr. Woods was able to come out of this alive," said deputy Carlos Gonzalez.&nbsp;

Villanueva said there was no evidence that the legendary golfer was under the influence of narcotics, alcohol or meditation.&nbsp;

Gonzalez, who was the first law enforcement official to arrive at the scene of the incident, said Woods was conscious when he initially saw him trapped in his vehicle and appeared "calm and lucid" to recognize himself.&nbsp;

Woods, who is one of the most successful golfers of all time, has recently undergone his fifth back surgery and this crash can jeopardise his career.&nbsp;

Tiger Woods who met a serious accident is currently "recovering" from his injuries, the hospital treating the golf legend said on Wednesday. Surgery was performed to repair "significant orthopaedic injuries" to Woods' lower right leg, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center chief medical officer Anish Mahajan said in a statement released on Woods' Twitter handle.

Tiger Woods who met a serious accident is currently "recovering" from his injuries, the hospital treating the golf legend said on Wednesday. Surgery was performed to repair "significant orthopaedic injuries" to Woods' lower right leg, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center chief medical officer Anish Mahajan said in a statement released on Woods' Twitter handle. "He is currently awake, responsive, and recovering in his hospital room," it further said. Earlier, Woods suffered serious injuries near Los Angeles on Tuesday after a severe car accident that law enforcement officials describe he was "very fortunate" to survive. Watch | He underwent surgery following the crash, the sheriff added. Los Angeles County fire chief Daryl Osby said Woods received "serious injuries to both legs". No other vehicle or were involved in the accident and the site of the accident is known as "hotspot" for high-speed accidents in recent times. "I will say that it's very fortunate that Mr. Woods was able to come out of this alive," said deputy Carlos Gonzalez. Villanueva said there was no evidence that the legendary golfer was under the influence of narcotics, alcohol or meditation. Gonzalez, who was the first law enforcement official to arrive at the scene of the incident, said Woods was conscious when he initially saw him trapped in his vehicle and appeared "calm and lucid" to recognize himself. Woods, who is one of the most successful golfers of all time, has recently undergone his fifth back surgery and this crash can jeopardise his career.

Tiger Woods is currently 'responsive', 'recovering' from injuries, says hospital

A probe has begun after a 17-metre-long (55ft) fin whale was found washed up on a beach in southern Israel.

The dead whale, weighing about 25 tonnes, was found on Thursday on the beach in the Nitzanim nature reserve.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-3-of-45-pilot-whales-survive-mass-stranding-in-indonesia-364867">Only 3 of 45 pilot whales survive mass stranding in Indonesia</a>

Heavy winds and gigantic waves were seen in Israel's entire Mediterranean coastline over Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing tonnes of tar into the beaches.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-new-population-of-blue-whales-was-discovered-hiding-in-the-indian-ocean-352725">A new population of Blue Whales was discovered hiding in the Indian Ocean</a>

Initially, it was believed that the whale could have died due to tar pollution&nbsp;

However, Israel's Nature and Parks Authority have brushed aside this theory and said the state of whale showed that it had died about two weeks ago.&nbsp;

"The whale's arrival cannot be linked to the tar pollution," the authority was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Earlier, David Halfon, of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority said the body of the whale is "quite rotten", making it "impossible" to find the cause of death with certainty, as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Fin Whale is the world's second-biggest mammal species after the Blue Whale.&nbsp;

The environmental protection ministry said it would locate the source of the pollution, adding that the cleanup would be "long and difficult".

Volunteers from a number of NGOs along with the ministry started cleaning up the beaches after emergency funds were released to expedite the manual cleaning.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A probe has begun after a 17-metre-long (55ft) fin whale was found washed up on a beach in southern Israel. The dead whale, weighing about 25 tonnes, was found on Thursday on the beach in the Nitzanim nature reserve.

A probe has begun after a 17-metre-long (55ft) fin whale was found washed up on a beach in southern Israel. The dead whale, weighing about 25 tonnes, was found on Thursday on the beach in the Nitzanim nature reserve. Also read | Only 3 of 45 pilot whales survive mass stranding in Indonesia Heavy winds and gigantic waves were seen in Israel's entire Mediterranean coastline over Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing tonnes of tar into the beaches. Also read | A new population of Blue Whales was discovered hiding in the Indian Ocean Initially, it was believed that the whale could have died due to tar pollution However, Israel's Nature and Parks Authority have brushed aside this theory and said the state of whale showed that it had died about two weeks ago. "The whale's arrival cannot be linked to the tar pollution," the authority was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Earlier, David Halfon, of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority said the body of the whale is "quite rotten", making it "impossible" to find the cause of death with certainty, as reported by news agency Reuters. Fin Whale is the world's second-biggest mammal species after the Blue Whale. The environmental protection ministry said it would locate the source of the pollution, adding that the cleanup would be "long and difficult". Volunteers from a number of NGOs along with the ministry started cleaning up the beaches after emergency funds were released to expedite the manual cleaning.

Probe launched after 17-metre-long whale found dead in Israeli beach

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