Chinese President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/xi-jinping">Xi Jinping </a>on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>situation in India.&nbsp;

In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people."

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-phase-3-vaccination-drive-hampered-in-many-states-due-to-vaccine-shortage-381645/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is the first official communication between the two leaders since the last year's stand-off in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clashes.&nbsp;

Highlighting how "humanity is a community with a shared future", Xi said, "only through solidarity and cooperation can countries around the world ultimately defeat the pandemic."

"Chinese side stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the Indian side in fighting the pandemic and provide support and help in this regard", he said, adding, "I believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the pandemic."

<img alt="Chinese President letter to PM Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2a872e6-c1b1-4dcf-a932-5180776fed48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/015cef68-d194-4ceb-901a-d4b94002407d.jpg" />

Earlier, Sun Weidong, Chinese ambassador to India, said on Thursday that Beijing has provided India will over 5,000 ventilators and 21,569 oxygen generators, among other supplies.&nbsp;

"Since this April, #China has supplied more than 5000 ventilators, 21569 oxygen generators, over 21.48 million masks &amp; around 3800 tons of medicines to #India, according to statistics of the General Administration of Customs of China," the envoy wrote on a tweet.&nbsp;

A few days ago, media reports said that the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) accused Beijing of stopping shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-to-provide-oxygen-concentrators-ventilators-to-friend-and-partner-india-to-combat-covid-381682">Japan to provide oxygen concentrators, ventilators to 'friend and partner' India to combat Covid</a>

Chinese foreign ministry denied these reports, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday saying that the country would do the utmost to help India fight the pandemic.&nbsp;

He also said that the anti-pandemic supplies from China are entering India at a faster pace.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Sidhant Sibal)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coronavirus situation in India. In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coronavirus situation in India. In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people." Watch | This is the first official communication between the two leaders since the last year's stand-off in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clashes. Highlighting how "humanity is a community with a shared future", Xi said, "only through solidarity and cooperation can countries around the world ultimately defeat the pandemic." "Chinese side stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the Indian side in fighting the pandemic and provide support and help in this regard", he said, adding, "I believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the pandemic." Earlier, Sun Weidong, Chinese ambassador to India, said on Thursday that Beijing has provided India will over 5,000 ventilators and 21,569 oxygen generators, among other supplies. "Since this April, #China has supplied more than 5000 ventilators, 21569 oxygen generators, over 21.48 million masks & around 3800 tons of medicines to #India, according to statistics of the General Administration of Customs of China," the envoy wrote on a tweet. A few days ago, media reports said that the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) accused Beijing of stopping shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India. Also read | Japan to provide oxygen concentrators, ventilators to 'friend and partner' India to combat Covid Chinese foreign ministry denied these reports, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday saying that the country would do the utmost to help India fight the pandemic. He also said that the anti-pandemic supplies from China are entering India at a faster pace. (With inputs from Sidhant Sibal)

Chinese President Xi offers condolences to Indian PM Modi over Covid situation

The United Nations on Friday warned that half of the population of Myanmar could be living in poverty next year due to the pandemic and political turmoil that began with the coup.&nbsp;

The grim prediction comes as fighting between the Myanmar military and armed ethnic rebels resumed, causing more refugees to flee to Thailand.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/myanmar-karen-village-pummelled-by-fresh-wave-or-air-strikes-381273/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Myanmar, which was already badly hit by the pandemic, saw the nation's crisis worsening after the military ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi and seized power on February 1.&nbsp;

Over 750 civilians have been killed, according to a local monitoring group as the crackdown began against the strong pro-democracy movement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/thousands-of-myanmar-villagers-poised-to-flee-violence-to-thailand-381533">Thousands of Myanmar villagers poised to flee violence to Thailand</a>

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said that by early 2022, 25 million people in Myanmar, about half of the country's population, could be living below the poverty line.&nbsp;

UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner said this projection threatens the progress made in the country since 2005, in which Myanmar halved the number of people living in poverty.&nbsp;

"Without functioning democratic institutions, Myanmar faces a tragic and avoidable backslide towards levels of poverty not seen in a generation," Steiner was quoted as saying in a statement by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Friday warned that half of the population of Myanmar could be living in poverty next year due to the pandemic and political turmoil that began with the coup.

The United Nations on Friday warned that half of the population of Myanmar could be living in poverty next year due to the pandemic and political turmoil that began with the coup. The grim prediction comes as fighting between the Myanmar military and armed ethnic rebels resumed, causing more refugees to flee to Thailand. Watch | Myanmar, which was already badly hit by the pandemic, saw the nation's crisis worsening after the military ousted the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi and seized power on February 1. Over 750 civilians have been killed, according to a local monitoring group as the crackdown began against the strong pro-democracy movement. Also read | Thousands of Myanmar villagers poised to flee violence to Thailand The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said that by early 2022, 25 million people in Myanmar, about half of the country's population, could be living below the poverty line. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner said this projection threatens the progress made in the country since 2005, in which Myanmar halved the number of people living in poverty. "Without functioning democratic institutions, Myanmar faces a tragic and avoidable backslide towards levels of poverty not seen in a generation," Steiner was quoted as saying in a statement by news agency AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Half of Myanmar's population could face poverty due to pandemic, coup: UN

France on Friday announced the opening of <a href="wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccinations </a>for all adults from June 15 regardless of any medical conditions.

"You are 18 years of age or over: meet on June 15 to be vaccinated," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter on Friday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-to-reopen-cafes-bars-museums-from-may-381692/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He also added that people above the age of 50 can register for a jab from May 15, extending an earlier age limit of 55 years.&nbsp;

Health Minister Olivier Veran earlier said that vaccinations have begun for people in the age group of 18-50 with chronic illnesses, particularly people suffering from obesity.&nbsp;

Over 15 million people have received a first Covid shot in the country or 29 per cent of the adult population, but so far the vaccines have been reserved for the elderly, people with medical conditions or pregnant women.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/france-reports-first-cases-of-coronavirus-variant-first-detected-in-india-381537">France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India</a>

As many as 6.2 million people in France or 12 per cent of the adult population have also received the second dose, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Macron on Thursday announced a phase-out approach to lifting coronavirus restrictions.&nbsp;

Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert halls will resume operations with limited capacity on May 19, along with non-essential shops and cafes and restaurants with outdoor setting.&nbsp;

The currently-followed 7:00 pm curfew will be gradually eased, to 9:00 pm on May 19 and 11:00 pm on June 9 and will cease to exist from June 30.

France on Friday announced the opening of coronavirus vaccinations for all adults from June 15 regardless of any medical conditions. "You are 18 years of age or over: meet on June 15 to be vaccinated," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter on Friday.

France on Friday announced the opening of coronavirus vaccinations for all adults from June 15 regardless of any medical conditions. "You are 18 years of age or over: meet on June 15 to be vaccinated," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter on Friday. Watch | He also added that people above the age of 50 can register for a jab from May 15, extending an earlier age limit of 55 years. Health Minister Olivier Veran earlier said that vaccinations have begun for people in the age group of 18-50 with chronic illnesses, particularly people suffering from obesity. Over 15 million people have received a first Covid shot in the country or 29 per cent of the adult population, but so far the vaccines have been reserved for the elderly, people with medical conditions or pregnant women. Also read | France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India As many as 6.2 million people in France or 12 per cent of the adult population have also received the second dose, news agency AFP reported. Meanwhile, Macron on Thursday announced a phase-out approach to lifting coronavirus restrictions. Museums, theatres, cinemas and concert halls will resume operations with limited capacity on May 19, along with non-essential shops and cafes and restaurants with outdoor setting. The currently-followed 7:00 pm curfew will be gradually eased, to 9:00 pm on May 19 and 11:00 pm on June 9 and will cease to exist from June 30.

Vaccination for all adults to begin in France from June 15

French Prime Minister Jean Castex paid tribute in a nationally televised ceremony on Friday to an administrative police worker stabbed to death last week at a police station, saying she was victim of "Islamist terrorism".

The killing of Stephanie Monferme, a 49-year-old mother of three, by a Tunisian national who was then shot dead by police was the latest in a string of Islamist-inspired attacks on French soil in recent years.

France faces a presidential election next year where issues such as militant Islam, immigration and violent crime are expected to dominate the agenda.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India">France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India</a>

"Stephanie was murdered because she represented the French police and the authority of the state. She was murdered because she served France," Castex told a ceremony attended by top government and police officials.

"Islamist terrorism has declared war on us but it is a war led by cowards. Only a coward could attack a woman who, because of her job, did not carry a weapon," he said.

Castex ended the ceremony by posthumously awarding Monferme France's highest medal, the Chevalier de La Legion d'Honneur. A minute of silence was followed by the Marseillaise national anthem.

On Wednesday, draft legislation was submitted to President Emmanuel Macron's government to strengthen counter-terrorism laws by permitting the use of algorithms to detect activity on jihadist and other extremist websites.

The official investigation had shown that Stephanie Monferme's assailant had watched religious videos glorifying acts of jihad just before carrying out his attack on the police worker in the Paris commuter town of Rambouillet.

French Prime Minister Jean Castex paid tribute in a nationally televised ceremony on Friday to an administrative police worker stabbed to death last week at a police station, saying she was victim of "Islamist terrorism".

French Prime Minister Jean Castex paid tribute in a nationally televised ceremony on Friday to an administrative police worker stabbed to death last week at a police station, saying she was victim of "Islamist terrorism". The killing of Stephanie Monferme, a 49-year-old mother of three, by a Tunisian national who was then shot dead by police was the latest in a string of Islamist-inspired attacks on French soil in recent years. France faces a presidential election next year where issues such as militant Islam, immigration and violent crime are expected to dominate the agenda. Also read | France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India "Stephanie was murdered because she represented the French police and the authority of the state. She was murdered because she served France," Castex told a ceremony attended by top government and police officials. "Islamist terrorism has declared war on us but it is a war led by cowards. Only a coward could attack a woman who, because of her job, did not carry a weapon," he said. Castex ended the ceremony by posthumously awarding Monferme France's highest medal, the Chevalier de La Legion d'Honneur. A minute of silence was followed by the Marseillaise national anthem. On Wednesday, draft legislation was submitted to President Emmanuel Macron's government to strengthen counter-terrorism laws by permitting the use of algorithms to detect activity on jihadist and other extremist websites. The official investigation had shown that Stephanie Monferme's assailant had watched religious videos glorifying acts of jihad just before carrying out his attack on the police worker in the Paris commuter town of Rambouillet.

France pays tribute to woman police worker stabbed to death in Islamist-inspired attack

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000&nbsp;vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.

The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said. 
The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added.

Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/experts-steroids-blood-thinners-crucial-to-save-lives-381546/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease.

HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said.

It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted. 
Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-crisis-outpouring-of-solidarity-by-international-community-says-fs-shringla-381427">India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla</a>

EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added.

The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country.

As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said.

Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000)&nbsp;vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000&nbsp; vials on April 28, it added.

An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted.

The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said.

India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million&nbsp;mark.

The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.&nbsp;

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement. The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said. The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added. Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases. The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease. HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said. It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted. Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said. Also read | India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added. The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country. As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said. Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000) vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000 vials on April 28, it added. An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted. The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said. India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million mark. The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.

India to import 450,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir amid spike in COVID-19 cases

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity.

The companies already filed a similar request with US authorities earlier this month. Their vaccine is currently only approved for use in people aged 16 and over.

In a joint statement, Pfizer and BioNTech said they had submitted a request with the Amsterdam-based European Medicines Agency (EMA) to expand the use of their jab to include "adolescents 12 to 15 years of age".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021">Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021</a>

Ugur Sahin, co-founder and CEO of Germany's BioNTech, on Thursday said the jab could be available for those age groups from June if EU approval is granted.

The move comes after phase 3 trial data showed that the vaccine provided "robust antibody responses" and was 100 percent effective in warding off the disease among those aged 12 to 15.

"The vaccine also was generally well tolerated," the statement added.

In an interview with Der Spiegel weekly, Sahin said he expected regulators' evaluation of the data to take four to six weeks.

If approved, the green light would apply to all 27 European Union member states.&nbsp;

Pfizer and BioNTech added that they also plan to seek authorisations "with other regulatory authorities worldwide".

No coronavirus vaccines are currently authorised for use on children.

While children and teenagers are less likely to develop severe Covid, they make up a large part of the population and inoculating them is considered key to ending the pandemic.

The prospect of getting older children jabbed before the next school year begins would also ease the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs.

"It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel.

BioNTech and Pfizer are also racing to get their jab approved for younger kids, from six months upwards.

"In July, the first results for five- to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," Sahin said.

Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine".

The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity.

Pfizer/BioNTech said on Friday they have asked European regulators to authorise their Covid-19 vaccine for 12- to 15-year-olds, a move seen as a crucial step towards achieving herd immunity. The companies already filed a similar request with US authorities earlier this month. Their vaccine is currently only approved for use in people aged 16 and over. In a joint statement, Pfizer and BioNTech said they had submitted a request with the Amsterdam-based European Medicines Agency (EMA) to expand the use of their jab to include "adolescents 12 to 15 years of age". Also read: Pfizer CEO says oral drug to treat coronavirus could be ready by end of 2021 Ugur Sahin, co-founder and CEO of Germany's BioNTech, on Thursday said the jab could be available for those age groups from June if EU approval is granted. The move comes after phase 3 trial data showed that the vaccine provided "robust antibody responses" and was 100 percent effective in warding off the disease among those aged 12 to 15. "The vaccine also was generally well tolerated," the statement added. In an interview with Der Spiegel weekly, Sahin said he expected regulators' evaluation of the data to take four to six weeks. If approved, the green light would apply to all 27 European Union member states. Pfizer and BioNTech added that they also plan to seek authorisations "with other regulatory authorities worldwide". No coronavirus vaccines are currently authorised for use on children. While children and teenagers are less likely to develop severe Covid, they make up a large part of the population and inoculating them is considered key to ending the pandemic. The prospect of getting older children jabbed before the next school year begins would also ease the strain on parents who are juggling the demands of homeschooling while keeping up with jobs. "It's very important to enable children a return to their normal school lives and allow them to meet with family and friends," Sahin told Spiegel. BioNTech and Pfizer are also racing to get their jab approved for younger kids, from six months upwards. "In July, the first results for five- to 12-year-olds could be available, and those for younger children in September," Sahin said. Ongoing trials so far are "very encouraging", Sahin said, suggesting that "children are very well protected by the vaccine". The BioNTech/Pfizer shot is based on mRNA technology and was the first Covid-19 jab to be approved in the West late last year.

Pfizer/BioNTech seek Covid jab approval for 12-15-year-olds in EU

A historic trial is underway in South Africa and the centre of it is the infamous Gupta brothers.

Their links are with former president Jacob Zuma.&nbsp;

Three years after Zuma stepped down, the ghost of the Guptas continues to haunt his successor Cyril Ramaphosa.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-big-admission-from-cyril-ramaphosa-381526/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But he has decided to grab the bull by its horns.

The South African president appeared before the investigators and decided to present evidence against members of his own party.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-president-testifies-on-corruption-accusations-involving-gupta-brothers-381421">South Africa president testifies on corruption accusations involving Gupta brothers</a>

In a rare move, Ramapohsa testified before a committee named the Zondo Commission of Inquiry that is tasked with looking into corruption in South Africa.

Ramaphosa admitted what the world knew all along that leaders of his party were hand in glove with the Guptas.

It is believed that the Guptas may have drained as much as seven billion dollars from the treasury of South Africa.

This was all possible because of their clout with former president Zuma.&nbsp;

The links ran deep as members of Zuma's family worked for companies owned by Guptas.

Bongi Ngema-Zuma, one his wives, was employed in a mining company.

Zuma's son Duduzane held senior positions too.

And his daughter Duduzile was a director at Sahara Computers, an IT company owned by the Guptas.

With the Zuma family on their side, the Guptas extended their influence over the entire South African government.

They had a say in the hiring of ministers and could even get a minister fired who came in the way of their business interests.

All of this came to light in 2016 as an investigation revealed how the Guptas controlled the government and the country's rich natural resources.

Zuma and the Guptas deny all these charges, but the law seems to be catching up with them.

Ramaphosa says he's determined to make sure justice is served. The question is, will he walk the talk? 
&nbsp;

A historic trial is underway in South Africa and the centre of it is the infamous Gupta brothers. Their links are with former president Jacob Zuma. Three years after Zuma stepped down, the ghost of the Guptas continues to haunt his successor Cyril Ramaphosa.

A historic trial is underway in South Africa and the centre of it is the infamous Gupta brothers. Their links are with former president Jacob Zuma. Three years after Zuma stepped down, the ghost of the Guptas continues to haunt his successor Cyril Ramaphosa. Watch | But he has decided to grab the bull by its horns. The South African president appeared before the investigators and decided to present evidence against members of his own party. Also read | South Africa president testifies on corruption accusations involving Gupta brothers In a rare move, Ramapohsa testified before a committee named the Zondo Commission of Inquiry that is tasked with looking into corruption in South Africa. Ramaphosa admitted what the world knew all along that leaders of his party were hand in glove with the Guptas. It is believed that the Guptas may have drained as much as seven billion dollars from the treasury of South Africa. This was all possible because of their clout with former president Zuma. The links ran deep as members of Zuma's family worked for companies owned by Guptas. Bongi Ngema-Zuma, one his wives, was employed in a mining company. Zuma's son Duduzane held senior positions too. And his daughter Duduzile was a director at Sahara Computers, an IT company owned by the Guptas. With the Zuma family on their side, the Guptas extended their influence over the entire South African government. They had a say in the hiring of ministers and could even get a minister fired who came in the way of their business interests. All of this came to light in 2016 as an investigation revealed how the Guptas controlled the government and the country's rich natural resources. Zuma and the Guptas deny all these charges, but the law seems to be catching up with them. Ramaphosa says he's determined to make sure justice is served. The question is, will he walk the talk?

Will justice be served as South Africa's Ramaphosa testifies in huge corruption scandal?

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America.

In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-remote-island-base-in-the-indian-ocean-381233/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

We will also see what are India's plans to consolidate its presence?

Let's begin with the vast Indian Ocean to the south.

Indians have sailed these waters for hundreds of years, but of late, it has become a strategic playground because of China.

Beijing wants to box India in with the 'String of Pearls' initiative, which comprises strategic ports that China controls.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-aggression-continues-as-liaoning-sails-between-japanese-islands-381177">China's aggression continues as Liaoning sails between Japanese islands</a>

India has responded in kind, as it is developing a military base in the south-western Indian Ocean.

There is North Agalega, an island controlled by Mauritius, India's long-standing ally.

This is where India is building its base.

It might seem like the middle of nowhere, but look around and it will make perfect sense.

To the south is the Reunion island, controlled by the French, another close ally, and to the north is Djibouti, China's foothold in Africa where they have a military base.&nbsp;

So the Indian base serves two objectives.&nbsp;

The first is to coordinate with allies and in fact, this is already happening as India recently conducted joint patrols with French vessels from the Reunion.

The second objective is surveillance, as from Agalega, India can keep an eye on Southern African trade routes, where most of China's energy trade is concentrated.&nbsp;

But we are not quite at that stage because North Agalega is still a remote outpost.&nbsp;

It is 12 km long and 1.5 km wide, which means it is small even by island standards.

Fewer than 300 people live there and until a few years back it was like a ghost island.

However, today it is buzzing with construction activity.

In October 2014, the island was wilderness surrounded by sea, but in 2015, India sought access to it.

New Delhi wanted to develop it as a staging point for its air force and navy.

Six years later, there is a new 3,000-metre-long runway, capable of hosting India's new Boeing patrol aircraft.

To the island's north, a new seaport is being constructed.

There are barracks, parade fields and accommodation for Indian workers.

It's a full-fledged Indian military base, but both India and Mauritius have been tight-lipped about it.

But, chances are, Agalega will serve as a surveillance hub for India, a crucial foothold in the south-western Indian Ocean.

In fact, Australia too is shifting focus to its military bases and again because of China.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a major spending spree, close to 580 million dollars, to upgrade four military bases to the country's north.

All kinds of upgrades are being planned, including a larger airstrip in the northern territory, new firing ranges, training facilities and housing for US Marines during joint war games.

The messaging from Canberra has changed in the last few months.

First, they tried to strike a balance between criticising China and trading with it, a move that failed miserably.

Now, top Australian officials are asking liberal democracies to brace for war.

Morrison appears more invested in the campaign against China.

"Our objective here in this part of the world is a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our objective here is to ensure a peaceful region but one that, at the same time, Australia is in a position to always protect its interests, always advance our national interests, always support a global world order that favours freedom and that is something that we share very deeply with our American friends and allies," Morrison said.

So the walls are closing in around China, not just militarily, but countries are mounting an economic challenge too.

This is where supply chains come in.

China controls global supply chains and it is dangerous for the world.

Beijing can choke any country it wants to and the downside of Chinese control was seen last year.&nbsp;

There was no transparency and a lot of delays.

So three countries have come together to sidestep China: India, Australia and Japan, members of the Quad alliance.

They have launched a new supply chain project called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).&nbsp;

Under this, businesses from these three countries will join hands and meet at investment forums facilitated by their governments.

The idea is to create a stable and seamless supply chain, one that can survive disruptions.

They've issued a joint statement, saying that the current supply chains are vulnerable, in a clear reference to China.

But the joint statement did not mention Beijing. Nonetheless, China is livid.

It has called this initiative an artificial supply chain, a deviation from the free-market economy.

The irony is that an opaque Communist country is preaching the world on free-market theory.

Regardless of what China thinks, the initiative is going ahead.&nbsp;

As a first step, all three countries will share best practices on robust supply networks.

Their trade ministers will meet annually to review progress.

So three Quad nations are showing the way beyond China.

The US is missing from this initiative, but it does call for a possible expansion if there is consensus.

Talks will not dissuade the Chinese military, but overseas bases and war games will.

The same is true for China's supply chain system as you can talk all you want at the World Trade Organization (WTO), but Beijing always reverts to type.

So the solution is this: build your own supply chain, delete Beijing from the equation.

There should be military deterrence and economic isolation, something that should make China pay.

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America. In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend.

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America. In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend. Watch | We will also see what are India's plans to consolidate its presence? Let's begin with the vast Indian Ocean to the south. Indians have sailed these waters for hundreds of years, but of late, it has become a strategic playground because of China. Beijing wants to box India in with the 'String of Pearls' initiative, which comprises strategic ports that China controls. Also read | China's aggression continues as Liaoning sails between Japanese islands India has responded in kind, as it is developing a military base in the south-western Indian Ocean. There is North Agalega, an island controlled by Mauritius, India's long-standing ally. This is where India is building its base. It might seem like the middle of nowhere, but look around and it will make perfect sense. To the south is the Reunion island, controlled by the French, another close ally, and to the north is Djibouti, China's foothold in Africa where they have a military base. So the Indian base serves two objectives. The first is to coordinate with allies and in fact, this is already happening as India recently conducted joint patrols with French vessels from the Reunion. The second objective is surveillance, as from Agalega, India can keep an eye on Southern African trade routes, where most of China's energy trade is concentrated. But we are not quite at that stage because North Agalega is still a remote outpost. It is 12 km long and 1.5 km wide, which means it is small even by island standards. Fewer than 300 people live there and until a few years back it was like a ghost island. However, today it is buzzing with construction activity. In October 2014, the island was wilderness surrounded by sea, but in 2015, India sought access to it. New Delhi wanted to develop it as a staging point for its air force and navy. Six years later, there is a new 3,000-metre-long runway, capable of hosting India's new Boeing patrol aircraft. To the island's north, a new seaport is being constructed. There are barracks, parade fields and accommodation for Indian workers. It's a full-fledged Indian military base, but both India and Mauritius have been tight-lipped about it. But, chances are, Agalega will serve as a surveillance hub for India, a crucial foothold in the south-western Indian Ocean. In fact, Australia too is shifting focus to its military bases and again because of China. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a major spending spree, close to 580 million dollars, to upgrade four military bases to the country's north. All kinds of upgrades are being planned, including a larger airstrip in the northern territory, new firing ranges, training facilities and housing for US Marines during joint war games. The messaging from Canberra has changed in the last few months. First, they tried to strike a balance between criticising China and trading with it, a move that failed miserably. Now, top Australian officials are asking liberal democracies to brace for war. Morrison appears more invested in the campaign against China. "Our objective here in this part of the world is a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our objective here is to ensure a peaceful region but one that, at the same time, Australia is in a position to always protect its interests, always advance our national interests, always support a global world order that favours freedom and that is something that we share very deeply with our American friends and allies," Morrison said. So the walls are closing in around China, not just militarily, but countries are mounting an economic challenge too. This is where supply chains come in. China controls global supply chains and it is dangerous for the world. Beijing can choke any country it wants to and the downside of Chinese control was seen last year. There was no transparency and a lot of delays. So three countries have come together to sidestep China: India, Australia and Japan, members of the Quad alliance. They have launched a new supply chain project called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI). Under this, businesses from these three countries will join hands and meet at investment forums facilitated by their governments. The idea is to create a stable and seamless supply chain, one that can survive disruptions. They've issued a joint statement, saying that the current supply chains are vulnerable, in a clear reference to China. But the joint statement did not mention Beijing. Nonetheless, China is livid. It has called this initiative an artificial supply chain, a deviation from the free-market economy. The irony is that an opaque Communist country is preaching the world on free-market theory. Regardless of what China thinks, the initiative is going ahead. As a first step, all three countries will share best practices on robust supply networks. Their trade ministers will meet annually to review progress. So three Quad nations are showing the way beyond China. The US is missing from this initiative, but it does call for a possible expansion if there is consensus. Talks will not dissuade the Chinese military, but overseas bases and war games will. The same is true for China's supply chain system as you can talk all you want at the World Trade Organization (WTO), but Beijing always reverts to type. So the solution is this: build your own supply chain, delete Beijing from the equation. There should be military deterrence and economic isolation, something that should make China pay.

What is India's sphere of influence to checkmate China?

Around&nbsp;400&nbsp;tonnes&nbsp;of&nbsp;oil&nbsp;spilt&nbsp;into the Yellow Sea after a&nbsp;tanker&nbsp;collided with another ship&nbsp;off&nbsp;China's largest crude-receiving port earlier this week, maritime&nbsp;authorities&nbsp;said Thursday.

"The amount of&nbsp;oil&nbsp;spilt&nbsp;from the ship into the sea is about&nbsp;400&nbsp;tonnes, and the emergency disposal work is being carried out in an orderly manner," said Shandong Maritime Safety Administration in a social media post.

"The&nbsp;collision&nbsp;incident has had no impact on ships entering and leaving Qingdao port."

It added that 12 decontamination vessels were deployed to clean up the&nbsp;oil&nbsp;spill, which took place around 40 nautical miles (75 kilometres)&nbsp;off-shore from Qingdao port in northeast&nbsp;China.&nbsp;

Panamanian bulk carrier "Sea Justice" struck the Liberian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;tanker&nbsp;"A Symphony" near Qingdao around 9 am Tuesday, causing the&nbsp;tanker&nbsp;to lose "a quantity of&nbsp;oil", according to a previous statement from vessel managers Goodwood Ship Management.

"All crew members have since been accounted for, and there are no injuries."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-spills-off-chinas-qingdao-port-after-ship-collision-380789">Oil spills off China's Qingdao port after ship collision</a>

An unnamed official with the Maritime Safety Administration told Chinese state newspaper Global Times on Thursday that the cargo was labelled as "bitumen solution" but its specific content requires further testing.

"The&nbsp;oil&nbsp;leak is in full disposal now and if technological controls are in place, it will certainly keep the impact on the environment to the minimum," the official was quoted as saying.

After the&nbsp;collision, vessels were told not to go within ten nautical miles (18.5 kilometres) of the area, according to a separate notice by the Maritime Safety Administration.

Goodwood Ship Management said Thursday that "managers are continuing to work closely with the MSA on the clean up operation and the investigation into the incident."

It previously said poor visibility in the area was hampering&nbsp;oil&nbsp;spill clean-up efforts.

Around 400 tonnes of oil spilt into the Yellow Sea after a tanker collided with another ship off China's largest crude-receiving port earlier this week, maritime authorities said Thursday.

Around 400 tonnes of oil spilt into the Yellow Sea after a tanker collided with another ship off China's largest crude-receiving port earlier this week, maritime authorities said Thursday. "The amount of oil spilt from the ship into the sea is about 400 tonnes, and the emergency disposal work is being carried out in an orderly manner," said Shandong Maritime Safety Administration in a social media post. "The collision incident has had no impact on ships entering and leaving Qingdao port." It added that 12 decontamination vessels were deployed to clean up the oil spill, which took place around 40 nautical miles (75 kilometres) off-shore from Qingdao port in northeast China. Panamanian bulk carrier "Sea Justice" struck the Liberian oil tanker "A Symphony" near Qingdao around 9 am Tuesday, causing the tanker to lose "a quantity of oil", according to a previous statement from vessel managers Goodwood Ship Management. "All crew members have since been accounted for, and there are no injuries." Also read | Oil spills off China's Qingdao port after ship collision An unnamed official with the Maritime Safety Administration told Chinese state newspaper Global Times on Thursday that the cargo was labelled as "bitumen solution" but its specific content requires further testing. "The oil leak is in full disposal now and if technological controls are in place, it will certainly keep the impact on the environment to the minimum," the official was quoted as saying. After the collision, vessels were told not to go within ten nautical miles (18.5 kilometres) of the area, according to a separate notice by the Maritime Safety Administration. Goodwood Ship Management said Thursday that "managers are continuing to work closely with the MSA on the clean up operation and the investigation into the incident." It previously said poor visibility in the area was hampering oil spill clean-up efforts.

Tanker collision spilt 400 tonnes of oil off China coast: Authorities

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>has continued where his predecessor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>has left when it comes to the nuclear ambitions of the United States as the first design phase of a multibillion-dollar project has been approved.&nbsp;

The National Nuclear Security Administration on Wednesday announced that planning and building of the project to manufacture key components of nuclear arsenal could cost upwards of USD 4 billion initially, news agency AP reported.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-zarif-leak-aimed-to-create-discord-during-iran-nuclear-talks-381027">Rouhani says Zarif leak aimed to create 'discord' during Iran nuclear talks</a>

For the project, the Los Alamos National Laboratory will begin manufacturing 30 plutonium cores per year.

The debate to increase the US's nuclear arsenal has been raised in many administrations with supporters arguing that Washington needs it amid global security concerns.&nbsp;

The nuclear agency also has stated that a majority of the cores in the stockpile are from the 1970s and 1980s.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-talks-make-some-progress-interim-deal-possible-say-iranian-officials-378667">Nuclear talks make some progress, interim deal possible, say Iranian officials&nbsp;</a>

Democrats belonging to New Mexico's congressional delegation have backed the production at Los Alamos over the billions of dollars in federal funding and thousands of jobs that are at stake.

However, watchdogs have raised concerns over potential security and safety lapses at the northern New Mexico lab and adverse effects on the environment.&nbsp;

Nuclear waste that is likely to be generated by the project is also a concern.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has continued where his predecessor Donald Trump has left when it comes to the nuclear ambitions of the United States as the first design phase of a multibillion-dollar project has been approved.

US President Joe Biden has continued where his predecessor Donald Trump has left when it comes to the nuclear ambitions of the United States as the first design phase of a multibillion-dollar project has been approved. The National Nuclear Security Administration on Wednesday announced that planning and building of the project to manufacture key components of nuclear arsenal could cost upwards of USD 4 billion initially, news agency AP reported. Also read | Rouhani says Zarif leak aimed to create 'discord' during Iran nuclear talks For the project, the Los Alamos National Laboratory will begin manufacturing 30 plutonium cores per year. The debate to increase the US's nuclear arsenal has been raised in many administrations with supporters arguing that Washington needs it amid global security concerns. The nuclear agency also has stated that a majority of the cores in the stockpile are from the 1970s and 1980s. Also read | Nuclear talks make some progress, interim deal possible, say Iranian officials Democrats belonging to New Mexico's congressional delegation have backed the production at Los Alamos over the billions of dollars in federal funding and thousands of jobs that are at stake. However, watchdogs have raised concerns over potential security and safety lapses at the northern New Mexico lab and adverse effects on the environment. Nuclear waste that is likely to be generated by the project is also a concern.

Despite concerns, US pushes policy to improve nuclear arsenal

In Iran, a leaked audio recording has become a national crisis.&nbsp;The audio clip is of Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif.&nbsp;It portrays Iran's diplomacy as being compromised by the country's military.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-rouhani-responds-to-javad-zarifs-leaked-audio-recording-381237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a clarification, Zarif has rejected any differences between the army and the bureaucracy.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has backed the foreign minister, calling the leak a conspiracy against the Islamic Republic.

This report explores if this controversy will impact Iran's upcoming presidential election.

In the leaked audio clip, Zarif is criticising Qassem Soleimani, the former commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rouhani-says-zarif-leak-aimed-to-create-discord-during-iran-nuclear-talks-381027">Rouhani says Zarif leak aimed to create 'discord' during Iran nuclear talks</a> 
&nbsp;

"I can dare to say that I have sacrificed diplomacy for the battlefield more than the price that (those on) the battlefield (led by Soleimani) paid and sacrificed for diplomacy," Zarif said in the audio.

These remarks were never intended to be broadcast, but they were leaked on Sunday by an alleged pro-Saudi outlet.

It has been 48 hours and the controversy has only snowballed.

The global media can't stop discussing it, with Zarif being forced to issue a clarification.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Zarif included a video of himself at the memorial of Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad.

The caption read: "I deeply regret how a secret theoretical debate about the need to increase diplomacy in the military turned into an internal conflict... Reducing the theoretical debate on the relationship between the two wings of the Islamic Republic as an excuse for dichotomy between the glorious military and zealous diplomats is short-sighted".

As the foreign minister expressed regret, the president was quick to extend his support.

Rouhani said the only aim of the leak was to create discord in the Islamic Republic.

"(It was published) just when Vienna was on the road to success, to create conflicts in the country. How can we succeed? How can we lift the sanctions? With solidarity, with unity. With divisions and arguments, we can't lift the sanctions," Rouhani said.

"These people are against Iran, against the people, against the interests of Iran," he said.&nbsp;

Tehran is going to probe what it calls a "conspiracy" and Rouhani has ordered investigators to identify who leaked the stolen three-hour recording because the language used in the audio is rarely heard of in Iranian politics.

It portrays Iranian diplomacy as consistently taking a back seat to the interests of the military, something Tehran vehemently denies.

"The president (Hassan Rouhani) has ordered the intelligence ministry to identify the agents of this conspiracy. We believe this theft of documents is a conspiracy against the government, the system, the integrity of effective domestic institutions and also against our national interests," Ali Rabiei, the Iran government's spokesman, said.&nbsp;

The leak and the probe also come at a crucial time when Iran is headed for a presidential election in June.

Rouhani will step down after completing the two terms allowed in the constitution.

But Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei remains in charge, so the election will be more like a selection.

The popular choice for a successor is brigadier Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

If we take into account the revelations made by Zarif on the divisions between the army and diplomats, a military man in charge of Iran's executive branch could only make things worse in the future. 
&nbsp;

In Iran, a leaked audio recording has become a national crisis. The audio clip is of Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. It portrays Iran's diplomacy as being compromised by the country's military.

In Iran, a leaked audio recording has become a national crisis. The audio clip is of Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif. It portrays Iran's diplomacy as being compromised by the country's military. Watch | In a clarification, Zarif has rejected any differences between the army and the bureaucracy. Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has backed the foreign minister, calling the leak a conspiracy against the Islamic Republic. This report explores if this controversy will impact Iran's upcoming presidential election. In the leaked audio clip, Zarif is criticising Qassem Soleimani, the former commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Also read | Rouhani says Zarif leak aimed to create 'discord' during Iran nuclear talks "I can dare to say that I have sacrificed diplomacy for the battlefield more than the price that (those on) the battlefield (led by Soleimani) paid and sacrificed for diplomacy," Zarif said in the audio. These remarks were never intended to be broadcast, but they were leaked on Sunday by an alleged pro-Saudi outlet. It has been 48 hours and the controversy has only snowballed. The global media can't stop discussing it, with Zarif being forced to issue a clarification. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Zarif included a video of himself at the memorial of Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad. The caption read: "I deeply regret how a secret theoretical debate about the need to increase diplomacy in the military turned into an internal conflict... Reducing the theoretical debate on the relationship between the two wings of the Islamic Republic as an excuse for dichotomy between the glorious military and zealous diplomats is short-sighted". As the foreign minister expressed regret, the president was quick to extend his support. Rouhani said the only aim of the leak was to create discord in the Islamic Republic. "(It was published) just when Vienna was on the road to success, to create conflicts in the country. How can we succeed? How can we lift the sanctions? With solidarity, with unity. With divisions and arguments, we can't lift the sanctions," Rouhani said. "These people are against Iran, against the people, against the interests of Iran," he said. Tehran is going to probe what it calls a "conspiracy" and Rouhani has ordered investigators to identify who leaked the stolen three-hour recording because the language used in the audio is rarely heard of in Iranian politics. It portrays Iranian diplomacy as consistently taking a back seat to the interests of the military, something Tehran vehemently denies. "The president (Hassan Rouhani) has ordered the intelligence ministry to identify the agents of this conspiracy. We believe this theft of documents is a conspiracy against the government, the system, the integrity of effective domestic institutions and also against our national interests," Ali Rabiei, the Iran government's spokesman, said. The leak and the probe also come at a crucial time when Iran is headed for a presidential election in June. Rouhani will step down after completing the two terms allowed in the constitution. But Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei remains in charge, so the election will be more like a selection. The popular choice for a successor is brigadier Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. If we take into account the revelations made by Zarif on the divisions between the army and diplomats, a military man in charge of Iran's executive branch could only make things worse in the future.

Decoding long-term implications of Iranian foreign minister's audio leak

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned European nations that relaxing Covid measures can create a "perfect storm" similar to the pandemic situation in India. Meanwhile according to a study by US's CDC, vaccinated adults are 94 per cent less likely to be hospitalised with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>.&nbsp;

Read this and more in our Top 10 World News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-crisis-like-in-india-could-happen-anywhere-warns-who-381419">Covid crisis like in India could 'happen anywhere', warns WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/20/179286-pjimage-3.jpg?itok=K22iEm6E" />

"When personal protective measures are being relaxed, when there are mass gatherings, when there are more contagious variants and the vaccination coverage is still low this can create a perfect storm in any country," Hans Kluge, head of WHO Europe told reporters on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vaccinated-adults-65-and-older-94-less-likely-to-be-hospitalised-with-covid-19-says-us-cdc-381259">Vaccinated adults 65 and older 94% less likely to be hospitalised with COVID-19, says US CDC</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/29/193131-untitled-design-4.jpg?itok=RtjIQQY1" />

The new study, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), showed that the risk of hospitalisation dropped significantly two weeks after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-to-go-into-complete-lockdown-from-tonight-381414">Jammu and Kashmir to go into complete lockdown from tonight</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/29/193189-lockdown-in-jammu-and-kashmir.jpg?itok=ntl6RkJ-" />

Jammu and Kashmir has been reporting more than 3,000 cases per day in the last week. The death toll has also gone up to 20 per day, which is the highest this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-bidens-speech-china-warns-us-against-imposing-democratic-ideals-381376">After Biden's speech, China warns US against imposing 'democratic ideals'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/29/193181-untitled-design-1.jpg?itok=i2sDpY5c" />

Chinese spokesperson slammed the US for "violating the market principle of fair competition" and "politicising" economy, trade and other issues, in a reference to the trade war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/young-people-who-recovered-from-covid-19-face-risk-of-reinfection-study-381384">Young people who recovered from COVID-19 face risk of reinfection: Study</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/15/187142-vv2.jpg?itok=kcWqXRFk" />

"Immunity is not guaranteed by past infection, and vaccinations that provide additional protection are still needed for those who have had COVID-19."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/continuous-exposure-to-pollution-can-cause-mental-illness-in-children-study-381381">Continuous exposure to pollution can cause mental illness in children: Study</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/46854-ap.jpg?itok=vrd6u_qf" />

According to the study, the connection between air pollution and the risk of mental illness is "modest" but real. "Individual, family and neighbourhood influences on mental health", such as poverty and/or a family history of mental disorder don't seem to affect this association.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senators-urge-pfizer-jj-moderna-to-help-india-in-covid-crisis-381363">US senators urge Pfizer, J&amp;J, Moderna to help India in Covid crisis</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/04/01/189913-untitled-design-15.jpg?itok=pkQRwI8k" />

Acknowledging that India is one of the biggest producers of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, the senators urged the pharma companies to share technology "such as vaccine recipes and manufacturing information, with partner companies to expedite production".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-variant-proof-french-vaccine-may-be-key-to-fight-against-covid-381386">A 'variant-proof' French vaccine may be key to fight against Covid</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/11/154149-russiav4.jpg?itok=HgY-cuPP" />

The vaccine is undergoing clinical trials. It uses a 'tried-and-true' vaccine technology that involves inactivated version of the virus. The company announced last week that it had launched a Phase 3 trial of its candidate vaccine. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-president-testifies-on-corruption-accusations-involving-gupta-brothers-381421">South Africa president testifies on corruption accusations involving Gupta brothers</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/05/163214-south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa.jpg?itok=jI5QgbEW" />

Ramaphosa said that the African National Congress did not probe corruption accusations against the brothers as the party did not hold the capacity to do the same.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-lost-nearly-800-billion-in-income-due-to-coronavirus-pandemic-381418">Women lost nearly $800 billion in income due to coronavirus pandemic</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/06/185872-gender-equality-reuters.jpg?itok=VaLUlpgx" />

Women, globally, have lost more than 64 million jobs this year and have suffered at least $800 billion in lost income last year — which is equivalent to a combined GDP of 98 countries.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned European nations that relaxing Covid measures can create a "perfect storm" similar to the pandemic situation in India.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned European nations that relaxing Covid measures can create a "perfect storm" similar to the pandemic situation in India. Meanwhile according to a study by US's CDC, vaccinated adults are 94 per cent less likely to be hospitalised with COVID-19. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News. Covid crisis like in India could 'happen anywhere', warns WHO "When personal protective measures are being relaxed, when there are mass gatherings, when there are more contagious variants and the vaccination coverage is still low this can create a perfect storm in any country," Hans Kluge, head of WHO Europe told reporters on Thursday. Vaccinated adults 65 and older 94% less likely to be hospitalised with COVID-19, says US CDC The new study, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), showed that the risk of hospitalisation dropped significantly two weeks after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines. Jammu and Kashmir to go into complete lockdown from tonight Jammu and Kashmir has been reporting more than 3,000 cases per day in the last week. The death toll has also gone up to 20 per day, which is the highest this year. After Biden's speech, China warns US against imposing 'democratic ideals' Chinese spokesperson slammed the US for "violating the market principle of fair competition" and "politicising" economy, trade and other issues, in a reference to the trade war. Young people who recovered from COVID-19 face risk of reinfection: Study "Immunity is not guaranteed by past infection, and vaccinations that provide additional protection are still needed for those who have had COVID-19." Continuous exposure to pollution can cause mental illness in children: Study According to the study, the connection between air pollution and the risk of mental illness is "modest" but real. "Individual, family and neighbourhood influences on mental health", such as poverty and/or a family history of mental disorder don't seem to affect this association. US senators urge Pfizer, J&J, Moderna to help India in Covid crisis Acknowledging that India is one of the biggest producers of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, the senators urged the pharma companies to share technology "such as vaccine recipes and manufacturing information, with partner companies to expedite production". A 'variant-proof' French vaccine may be key to fight against Covid The vaccine is undergoing clinical trials. It uses a 'tried-and-true' vaccine technology that involves inactivated version of the virus. The company announced last week that it had launched a Phase 3 trial of its candidate vaccine. South Africa president testifies on corruption accusations involving Gupta brothers Ramaphosa said that the African National Congress did not probe corruption accusations against the brothers as the party did not hold the capacity to do the same. Women lost nearly $800 billion in income due to coronavirus pandemic Women, globally, have lost more than 64 million jobs this year and have suffered at least $800 billion in lost income last year — which is equivalent to a combined GDP of 98 countries.

Top 10 world news: WHO COVID warning, J&K lockdown and more

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Abhilash Mahajan

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.